Martin Zubimendi responds to Arsenal transfer link

Martin Zubimendi has insisted that he is clearly happy at Real Sociedad amid the transfer interest from Arsenal.

The Gunners were interested in signing him in the January transfer window but Zubimendi decided to stay put.

The defensive midfielder wanted to help Sociedad qualify for the Champions League and did not want to leave.

Ahead of the summer, the Gunners are back in the hunt to sign him but Zubimendi remains unperturbed.

He said: "I have never planned to leave Real Sociedad — I always say that. I love life here, at home, I’m so happy here."

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is a huge admirer of the Spaniard, who has the ability to win regular aerial duels.

The manager shares the same agent as the midfielder and this could boost Arsenal's chances of landing him.

Sociedad are unlikely to sell Zubimendi for less than his £52m release clause if he agrees terms with Arsenal.

Barcelona are also admirers of the Spaniard but they are unlikely to afford him amid Financial Fair Play issues.