Arsenal transfer plans could crumble because of Xabi Alonso as Gunners back to square oneArsenal’s €60m move for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi hangs in the balance. The midfielder, with a verbal agreement and medical pending, prefers a Real Madrid move. Madrid, seeking a Toni Kroos replacement, may offer players on loan to lower Zubimendi’s release clause, but can’t match Arsenal’s £8m annual salary offer. Zubimendi faces a choice between financial gain and playing for his preferred club.
