Martin Zubimendi to Chelsea: Xabi Alonso pushes for shock Arsenal exit

Xabi Alonso has reportedly told Chelsea officials he wants to sign Martin Zubimendi before the summer transfer window closes. The 27-year-old joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad for €70 million last July and played every league game in his debut season, scoring five goals as the Gunners won the Premier League for the first time since 2004. According to Chelsea transfer insider Simon Phillips, Alonso has personally requested the move. There is no indication Chelsea are ready to seriously pursue a deal, and Arsenal are expected to reject any offers. Still, a surprise transfer cannot be ruled out before the 1 September deadline. Alonso coached Zubimendi at Real Sociedad's B team and has a long-standing admiration for him. In 2022, he told The media: "Martin's a player all coaches would want. He's generous, he always thinks more about his team-mates than himself." Zubimendi has described Alonso as "an idol, a role model" and credited him with improving his understanding of pressing and build-up play. The midfielder's position at Arsenal is also less secure than it looked a year ago. Bruno Guimaraes is expected to complete an €87m (£75m) move from Newcastle United, which would push Zubimendi down the pecking order. He had already lost his starting place to academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly in the final weeks of last season. Chelsea, meanwhile, look light in midfield. Enzo Fernandez appears set to stay, but Jordan Henderson and Valentin Barco are not expected to play leading roles, Romeo Lavia remains a major injury risk, and Dario Essugo may need a loan. With Alonso's personal connection to Zubimendi, the idea of a reunion is not as far-fetched as it seems.