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Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is a big fan of Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said that Alonso’s admiration for the player goes back several years, but any deal would be dependent on the Blues offering the Gunners a sizeable transfer fee:

“He’s a player he loves. One day, Xabi Alonso would love to work with Martin Zubimendi, but at the moment, again, that’s it. And also, to see Arsenal selling to Chelsea, obviously that would take very big money and also [with] Chelsea, I will keep in mind the name of Alex Scott when we talk about midfielders. So at the moment, the Zubimendi situation is quiet.”

Zubimendi has made his stance clear on leaving Arsenal

Despite the links to Chelsea, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, the 27-year-old has recently stated that he is “happy” to remain at the Premier League champions.

It is still possible that Zubimendi will change his mind before the January transfer window opens. He is not getting many games for the Gunners, having been limited to just 100 minutes in the Premier League this season.

What is the latest on Chelsea’s move for Alex Scott?

As Romano mentions, the Bournemouth star still appears to be the priority target for the Blues, but that deal is getting more complicated by the day.

It was initially believed that Bournemouth’s stance on selling Scott in January had softened, but it appears that the Cherries are now aiming to keep their squad together until the summer.

Furthermore, rival clubs are now actively pursuing the midfielder, with reports claiming that both Liverpool and Arsenal have made formal enquiries for the player, along with Alonso’s side

It means alternatives to Scott may have to be sought out, and Zubimendi could be one of those under consideration.