Arsenal to ditch Amadou Onana pursuit in favour of signing Martin Zubimendi

Arsenal are unlikely to launch a move for in-demand Everton star Amadou Onana this summer despite their initial interest, according to The Athletic reporter David Ornstein.

The defensive midfielder is one of the most highly sought-after players in the transfer market, but the Gunners are unlikely to enter the race to land his signature.

Onana has excelled for a struggling Everton side this season, making 29 appearances across all competitions while contributing three goals and an assist.

His impressive performances have attracted plenty of interest, with clubs at home and abroad lining up to land his signature, but Arsenal are set to shop elsewhere for reinforcement.

There are growing uncertainties over the long-term futures of Jorgingho and the injury-prone Thomas Partey. 

Mohammed Elneny is also expected to leave the club when his contract runs out at the end of the season, so the Gunners are expected to reinforce that position.

Everton are likely to demand around £60 million for Onana but Arsenal have other targets on their radar amid fears the Belgian may not fit the profile needed in Mikel Arteta’s squad.

“I’m sure there is some appreciation for Onana at Arsenal and elsewhere, but I’m not sure if he will fit the profile or price bracket they will be looking for if they recruit in his position,” Ornstein said during his Q&A session.

“In the No.6 role, we know Arteta likes [Martin] Zubimendi, while if it’s a No.8 they go for, there will be multiple options as well. I don’t really see this one happening, but equally firm decisions probably haven’t been made yet.”

Arsenal are long-term admirers of Zubimendi, and they’re expected to launch a move for the Spanish midfield controller this summer.

The 25-year-old has a contract with Real Sociedad that runs until 2027, so a deal could be difficult for Arsenal to pull off, especially with the Spanish club under no pressure to sell.

However, if they can activate his €60m release clause, they may be able to convince the midfielder to take up a fresh and exciting challenge in the Premier League.

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