José Mourinho Approves Move for Arsenal's Martín Zubimendi

José Mourinho has reportedly given Real Madrid the go-ahead to move for Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi in this summer’s transfer window, reopening a saga that seemed closed a year ago.

The Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo claims Zubimendi has forced his way back into Madrid’s thinking after a difficult season in London. The 27-year-old was strongly linked with the Bernabéu last summer, just as Xabi Alonso arrived, but ultimately chose Arsenal instead.

Now his name is back on the agenda at Real Madrid. The renewed interest has sharpened in the wake of Rodri rejecting a switch to the Spanish capital, leaving the club still searching for a high-level option in the middle of the pitch.

This is where Mourinho steps in. According to the report, the Portuguese coach has made his stance clear to the hierarchy: go and get Zubimendi.

Arsenal are not blocking the door. The Gunners are open to a sale if a suitable offer arrives. They paid €65 million for the midfielder last year, which sets the baseline — any serious bid will have to come in above that figure.

Zubimendi’s camp is now studying the landscape. The player has lost much of his status in Mikel Arteta’s side, and his representatives are exploring a potential exit while the window is open.

Mourinho is still pushing for a creative midfielder and has approved the pursuit of the Spaniard, but the path is far from clear. Two obstacles stand in the way: Arsenal’s price tag, and Madrid’s own squad situation.

The club have already decided there will be no more signings unless someone leaves. For Zubimendi to walk through the door at the Bernabéu, a current Madrid player will first have to walk out.