Chelsea want to sign 27yo Arsenal star in January

Chelsea have set their sights on landing Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi when the transfer window reopens this winter.

The 27-year-old was linked with the Blues during the last transfer window, but the Gunners made it clear he wasn't for sale.

However, the midfielder could be on the move in January, given he has hardly played in the Premier League for the Gunners this term.

Zubimendi has been restricted to a substitute role for the Gunners so far, and his relationship with manager Mikel Arteta has deteriorated.

Amid this, The Independent claim that the Blues could re-enter the pursuit of the player. They will face competition from Atletico and Real Madrid.

Arsenal have yet to contemplate a possible exit but Relevo have claimed that it could take a package of around £65m to persuade them to sell.

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has a close relationship with Zubimendi from his days as Sociedad assistant and could play a key role in discussions.