"I am happy" - Arsenal target reacts to transfer rumours

Martin Zubimendi has insisted that he is "happy" at Real Sociedad amid links with a potential move to Arsenal.

The midfielder rose through the youth ranks at the Basque club, before moving into the first-team setup to make his senior debut in April 2019.

Zubimendi has gone on to register a total of 187 competitive appearances and establish himself as a key part of the Real Sociedad squad.

The 25-year-old's importance to Imanol Alguacil's side is demonstrated by the fact that he has started 28 of the club's 32 La Liga matches this season.

Zubimendi, a Spain international, was also included in all eight of Real Sociedad's Champions League starting lineups before they were eliminated in the last 16 by Paris Saint-Germain.

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Zubimendi "happy" amid Arsenal links

Having impressed for his boyhood club, he is now being linked with a move away amid interest from the likes of Arsenal.

While he cannot give any assurances about his long-term future, Zubimendi is currently "happy" at Real Sociedad despite the rumours about a potential departure.

When asked about the speculation, Zubimendi told Marca: "They are just rumours, I am happy at Real Sociedad, it is like my home.

"I cannot say that I will play my entire career at Real Sociedad, perhaps the club won't want me to continue in the future. But I do not concern myself with these rumours."

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Arsenal's hunt for midfield reinforcements

The Gunners have reportedly identified Zubimendi as a top target, with uncertainty surrounding the future of Jorginho, Mohamed Elneny and Thomas Partey.

As it stands, Jorginho and Elneny are both out of contract at the end of the season, while there has been a suggestion that Partey could be sold this summer.

However, Arsenal could face competition for Zubimendi, with Bayern Munich and Barcelona both showing an interest in the defensive midfielder.

Instead of solely focusing on signing Zubimendi, Arsenal are believed to be considering alternative targets, including Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz and Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes.