According to a report by Madrid Universal on Saturday, October 17, 2026, Real Madrid have reconsidered their midfield recruitment plans ahead of the January transfer window, with Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi reportedly no longer their preferred target.

Although the Spanish giants continue to appreciate the Spain international’s qualities, they are exploring other options that could better meet their immediate requirements under manager Jose Mourinho.

Real Madrid are keen to reinforce their midfield as they seek to improve their control of matches, particularly in possession, during build-up play and when facing opponents who apply intense pressure.

However, the club are reportedly unwilling to invest heavily in a mid-season signing without being confident that the player would make a significant difference to the team.

Consequently, Zubimendi remains a player of interest, but the possibility of completing a January transfer is becoming increasingly complicated.

The 27-year-old’s ability to dictate the tempo of matches, organise possession and provide stability in midfield continues to make him an attractive option for Real Madrid. His playing style aligns with the club’s desire to improve their ability to control games and maintain possession under pressure.

Nevertheless, Madrid’s sporting department is reportedly assessing whether alternative candidates would be better suited to Mourinho’s tactical demands and current plans for the squad.

Zubimendi’s contractual situation at Arsenal is another major obstacle to a potential transfer. The midfielder is tied to the Premier League club until 2030, giving the Gunners considerable negotiating power and leaving them under no immediate pressure to consider his departure.

Arsenal would also be reluctant to lose an established first-team player midway through the season, especially with important fixtures still to come in the second half of the campaign.

These factors could make negotiations both difficult and expensive for Real Madrid, contributing to the reported reduction in their pursuit of the Spanish midfielder.

Madrid’s search for reinforcements reflects their desire to improve the team’s overall balance and ability to dictate the rhythm of matches. The club are looking for a midfielder who can distribute the ball efficiently, strengthen their build-up play and provide a reliable link between the defence and attack.

A player with those qualities could help Real Madrid maintain possession more effectively, particularly against opponents who press aggressively and attempt to disrupt their passing patterns.

Although Zubimendi possesses many of the attributes Madrid are seeking, the potential transfer fee and Arsenal’s firm negotiating position have complicated their efforts to secure his services.

Mourinho and the club’s sporting department must now decide whether to pursue an alternative target during the January window or postpone their plans until a more favourable opportunity emerges.

Real Madrid’s priority is reportedly to recruit a midfielder capable of making an immediate impact rather than signing another player simply to increase the squad’s numbers.

Arsenal’s position is understandable, given Zubimendi’s importance to their midfield structure. Allowing him to leave halfway through the season could disrupt the team’s balance and force manager Mikel Arteta to search for a replacement during a difficult period of the campaign.

For Real Madrid, the situation presents a significant challenge. While Zubimendi remains an appealing option, securing his signature could require substantial financial investment and difficult negotiations with Arsenal.

The Spanish giants must therefore balance their desire to strengthen the midfield immediately against the financial cost and practical difficulties of completing the deal, while considering whether another candidate could provide a more suitable solution to Mourinho’s requirements.