Arsenal and Real Madrid have been locked in a transfer battle for Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi since the start of June. The Gunners have been tracking the Spain international for over 12 months - following his call to reject Liverpool last summer - with Mikel Arteta viewing him as a vital acquisition.

Arsenal have been heavily linked with Rodrygo but Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has hinted that the Brazil international is poised to stay in the Spanish capital

The 43-year-old is taking on one of football's most demanding jobs off the back of the Spanish giants' disappointing European season