Atlético plan major swap deal with Arsenal in January

Atlético are exploring the possibility of a swap deal with Arsenal during the upcoming winter transfer window, which would see Martín Zubimendi move to the Spanish side in exchange for Julián Alvarez heading to the London club.

According to "Mundo Deportivo", citing "RNE" and journalist Silvia Barba, Atlético see Martín Zubimendi as a serious target after his role at Arsenal has diminished at the start of the 2026/2027 season, losing his starting position, amid interest from the Madrid club since his time at Real Sociedad.

The Spanish midfielder has not exceeded 100 minutes during his first seven matches in the Premier League, and he has participated in only about 200 minutes in the league and UEFA Champions League, after joining Arsenal from Real Sociedad for 70 million euros.

In contrast, Julián Alvarez is going through a difficult period at Atlético, having scored only two goals this season, amid an unstable relationship with part of the fans, as well as the failure of his transfer to FC Barcelona last summer. Arsenal had explored the possibility of signing him last August.

Despite this, Atlético are holding out for €150 million for Julián Alvarez, refusing to strengthen FC Barcelona. Meanwhile, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are monitoring Martín Zubimendi's future, who is also attracting their interest.