Arsenal make Romero approach and rule out Zubimendi sale

Arsenal have shut down speculation over Martin Zubimendi's future by making it clear the midfielder is not for sale. The Spain international has been linked with Chelsea, but the north London club have no intention of letting him leave. Zubimendi has previously spoken of his admiration for Xabi Alonso, describing the World Cup winner as an idol whose playing style he tries to emulate. Chelsea have been tipped to make a sensational swoop for the 27-year-old, especially after Arsenal completed a £75 million deal for Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes. That arrival raised questions about the pecking order, but Arsenal's stance has not changed. Mikel Arteta spent three years trying to sign Zubimendi before finally landing him from Real Sociedad last summer for €70 million. Since arriving at the Emirates, the Spaniard has formed a Premier League-winning midfield partnership with Declan Rice and remains a central figure in Arteta's long-term plans. The Gunners are not worried about the Guimaraes deal altering that picture. Arteta knows he needs strength and depth in midfield as Arsenal chase a first Champions League trophy this season, and Zubimendi is seen as a key part of that project. Arsenal have also made an approach for Tottenham centre-back Cristian Romero. The club have contacted the Argentina international's representatives to gauge whether he would be open to a controversial move across north London. Spurs are reluctant to sell one of their top performers and would be more willing to talk to Atletico Madrid, who are also interested in Romero. At this stage, a deal remains a long shot, but it underlines Arsenal's determination to explore every route as they prepare to defend their Premier League title.