Arsenal Targets Zubimendi, Uncertainty in 2024 NBA

Arsenal

As the European transfer window swings open, the rumor mill is buzzing with potential moves and speculations. In the midst of the action, Arsenal has emerged as a contender for Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo.

The LaLiga side initially hoped for a quiet winter transfer window, but interest in the 24-year-old Spain international is intensifying, primarily due to his €60 million release clause. Arsenal, among several top Premier League clubs, has reportedly reignited its interest in Zubimendi, with manager Mikel Arteta viewing him as an ideal midfield addition.

The Gunners’ pursuit of Zubimendi is not a newfound interest, as they were linked with the midfielder during the summer transfer window. Now, with the winter window in full swing, Arsenal appears to be considering a move for the talented player. However, the decision might not be straightforward for Zubimendi, given Real Sociedad’s upcoming UEFA Champions League knockout stage clash against Paris Saint-Germain next month.

Zubimendi has showcased his prowess on the field, notably scoring in a 1-1 LaLiga draw with Alavés at the beginning of the year. This marked his 19th league appearance of the season, underlining his importance to the squad. Additionally, he featured prominently in Spain’s European Championship qualifying matches in November.

Despite Zubimendi’s current injury sidelining him, the interest from top clubs, including Arsenal, continues to grow. The midfielder’s versatility, coupled with his impressive performances in the National Basketball League (NBL) in Australia, has made him a sought-after prospect.

The uncertainty surrounding the 2024 NBA draft’s top pick has led to diverse opinions among NBA executives and scouts. ESPN’s Jeremy Woo conducted a poll among 20 professionals to gauge expectations for the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft. The majority of respondents (12 out of 20) leaned towards Alex Sarr, a 7-foot-1 French big man currently playing in the NBL. Sarr’s strong showing in December has elevated him to the frontrunner position, despite some doubts about his fitness due to a hip injury.

The lack of consensus on the top pick underscores the unpredictable nature of the 2024 NBA draft, with the lottery outcome potentially influencing the final decision. While Sarr is currently leading the race, the draft landscape may evolve leading up to June 27.

In other transfer news, Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich is reportedly open to leaving the club in the summer. The versatile midfielder has caught the attention of Paris Saint-Germain, but a move to either the Premier League or LaLiga seems more appealing to him. Several MLS clubs are eyeing AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud, whose contract expires at the end of the season. The 37-year-old’s decision on a new destination is expected in the spring.

Juventus is willing to part ways with winger Filip Kostic, with clubs in Saudi Arabia expressing interest. The 31-year-old could be on the move as Juventus looks to manage its financial situation. Additionally, Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester United, are monitoring Bayer Leverkusen wing-back Jeremie Frimpong, who has been in impressive form.

Sevilla aims to beat Everton in the race for Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri. The 20-year-old is likely to leave Old Trafford on loan to secure more first-team minutes. Talks between Inter Milan and forward Lautaro Martínez’s representatives have been scheduled, with both parties keen on finalizing a new deal worth €10 million per season.

As the transfer window unfolds, these stories add intrigue to the dynamic world of football transfers, with clubs positioning themselves to secure key players and prospects.

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By- Sahiba Suri

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