Real Madrid decided not to move for Martin Zubimendi despite Xabi Alonso advising the club to do so. The Spanish midfielder instead joined Arsenal where he has become a key man in Mikel Arteta's midfield.
The Gunners paid Real Sociedad €60m to sign the Spaniard and he's since formed a fine midfield partnership with Declan Rice. He's regarded as one of the best signings of the Premier League season.
Madrid's decision to snub the 27-year-old came back to haunt them amid a lack of creativity in the middle of the park. Jude Bellingham's injury has only made matters worse for Los Blancos.
There is a chance for the La Liga giants to try and make amends. That's according to a report relayed by Madrid Universal.
Zubimendi already plotting Arsenal exit?
It's suggested that Zubimendi and his family will "review their position" at Arsenal this summer. A return to Spain isn't ruled out for the midfielder who has just over four years on his contract.
Zubimendi has been excellent this season, posting six goals and three assists in 40 games across competitions. He's adapted to the Premier League with ease but perhaps is missing his homeland where he grew as a footballer.
A previous report claimed that Alonso pitched the former Sociedad midfielder to the club's higher-ups. His demand fell on deaf ears and they instead continued to focus on signing youth.
Zubimendi wouldn't be cheap if there was a chance to sign him this summer. Arsenal are in control of the situation and would likely demand double the amount they paid for him.
The Spaniard even touched on Madrid's interest earlier this year and whether he felt the club needed him. He said: “I don’t think so,. Madrid has more than enough players to do well. No way, no way.”
A must have if available
Madrid almost certainly could do with Zubimendi given their struggles this season. Alvaro Arbeloa's men have fallen four points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race.
They face Manchester City in the last 16 of the Champions League and are underdogs heading into that tie. It's believed that the squad feel winning the European title is their only hope of a successful season.
Zubimendi knows Spanish football from his time at Sociedad where he developed into one of Europe's most highly-rated midfield talents. He made 236 appearances for the La Liga club, posting 10 goals and nine assists.