Xabi Alonso is interested in signing Martin Zubimendi for Chelsea, according to reports, as Arsenal close in on a big-money move for Bruno Guimaraes.
Why Guimaraes’s Arrival Could Affect Zubimendi’s Arsenal Future
Journalist Simon Phillips reported that Alonso is a big fan of Zubimendi and that the Arsenal midfielder has been mentioned by the Chelsea manager. The report presents Zubimendi as a player Alonso likes rather than confirming that a transfer is under way.
Zubimendi joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad last summer for a fee of around £55.8 million. He came through Sociedad’s academy before making his breakthrough at first-team level, spending several years with the club before his move to north London.
The 27-year-old deep-lying playmaker made a bright start to English football but lost his place in Arsenal’s starting line-up towards the end of the campaign and received criticism for some performances.
Arsenal are closing in on a big-money move for Newcastle midfielder Guimaraes, a development that could limit Zubimendi’s opportunities. The potential midfield configuration also leaves questions over the roles of Guimaraes and Declan Rice.
Speaking on The Football Ramble podcast, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher said he was not convinced Zubimendi would regain the controlling role he had been brought in to fill. Carragher also highlighted uncertainty over Rice’s best position and whether Guimaraes would operate in a deeper role.
Alonso’s History With Zubimendi Runs Deep
Alonso coached Zubimendi during his first managerial job at Real Sociedad B, giving him a close understanding of the midfielder. Their previous work together provides context to the reported Chelsea interest.
In 2022, Alonso described Zubimendi as the type of player coaches would want. He praised the Spaniard’s focus on team-mates and his ability to generate play, improve those around him, and offer solutions during moves.
Alonso was appointed Chelsea manager earlier in 2026 and has had greater control over the club’s transfer policy than some predecessors. Chelsea’s business this summer has included Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson from Brighton and Brentford respectively, Atalanta right wing-back Marco Pellestra, Rayo Vallecano’s Pep Chavarria, and Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for a British-record fee of £117 million.
Zubimendi would be another midfielder with the positional qualities Alonso has previously admired, but the report does not establish whether Chelsea will make a move.
Arsenal’s Stance Remains a Hurdle for Chelsea
There are no suggestions Arsenal are ready to sell Zubimendi. The club are aiming to compete for trophies across multiple fronts, and strength in depth is important to that objective.
A direct move from Arsenal to Chelsea would also be unusual. Such transfers have been exceptionally rare in the 21st century. Olivier Giroud made the move as part of a swap deal in 2018, and Ashley Cole joined Chelsea in a controversial 2006 deal that was itself structured around a player exchange rather than a simple fee.
Alonso’s reported interest and Arsenal’s pursuit of Guimaraes make Zubimendi’s situation one to watch. However, there is no indication in the reporting that Arsenal are prepared to part with the midfielder.
