Paul Scholes says £51m Arsenal top target cannot replace departing Jorginho
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has expressed doubts about Arsenal’s proposed £51m signing of Martin Zubimendi, questioning the Spanish midfielder’s ability to replace Jorginho. Zubimendi, 26, has reportedly agreed personal terms with Arsenal and is expected to join the club when the summer transfer window opens.
“What hole is Martin Zubimendi going to fill? I don’t see a hole there,” Scholes said on The Overlap. “I think Declan Rice can do that role [defensive midfielder]. Everyone seems to see Rice as more of an attacking player, I don’t see that in him at all.”
Scholes’ skepticism stems from his observation of Zubimendi’s performance against Manchester United for Real Sociedad. “I saw Zubimendi against United for Sociedad and I wasn’t impressed. That’s maybe where I’m coming from in terms of doubting he can fill that hole.”
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However, Gary Neville disagrees with Scholes’ assessment, believing Zubimendi would bring much-needed control and ball retention to Arsenal.
Jorginho (Image credit: Getty Images)
“I genuinely don’t believe Rice or Partey are anywhere near as good at receiving the ball as some of the other midfielders in the Premier League.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta wants to sign Zubimendi to sit in front of the back four and dictate play, allowing Declan Rice to move into a more attacking role. With Jorginho set to depart and Thomas Partey linked to a summer move, Arsenal’s midfield dynamics are set to change.
Zubimendi has made over 200 appearances for La Liga side Real Sociedad and helped Spain win Euro 2024 last summer.
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He is expected to play a crucial role in Arsenal’s midfield, but Scholes’ concerns raise questions about his ability to adapt to the Premier League.
Spanish Euro 2024 stars Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino (Image credit: Getty Images)The signing of Zubimendi would be a significant coup for Arsenal, who have been in talks with the midfielder for several months. The Gunners feared Real Madrid would hijack their move, but Zubimendi’s reported agreement on personal terms has alleviated those concerns.
Arsenal’s midfield has been a key area of focus for Arteta, who believes Zubimendi’s arrival would strengthen the team. However, with Scholes’ doubts and the challenge of adapting to the Premier League, Zubimendi faces a tough task to prove himself.
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