Bayern Munich have reportedly decided against pursuing Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi during the January transfer window, despite previously showing an interest in signing the Spain international.
The 27-year-old has attracted attention from several European clubs amid speculation over his future at the Emirates Stadium, with Bayern, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid all previously linked with the midfielder.
However, German journalist Christian Falk has now provided an update on Bayern's transfer plans, suggesting a move for Zubimendi is not on the agenda this winter.
The midfielder joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in July last year in a deal worth £60million and made a significant contribution during his first season in north London.
Bayern Munich rule out January move for Zubimendi
Writing in his CF Bayern Insider column, Falk addressed reports linking the German champions with Zubimendi.
“It is NOT TRUE: Bayern Munich are interested in Martin Zubimendi and considering a January move.
“Bayern will not go for the Spaniard in the winter.”
Falk explained that Bayern had previously scouted Zubimendi and held discussions about a potential move before he joined Arsenal in 2025.
The Bundesliga side continue to admire the midfielder, but his potential cost and other priorities in the transfer market have made a deal unlikely.
Vincent Kompany's side are reportedly looking at strengthening other areas of their squad rather than pursuing the Arsenal player.
Zubimendi's Arsenal future attracts attention
Zubimendi enjoyed an impressive debut campaign at Arsenal, making 57 appearances across all competitions and scoring six goals as the Gunners won the Premier League title and reached the Champions League final.
However, his involvement has been more limited this season, with the midfielder making 12 appearances so far.
Myles Lewis-Skelly has also featured ahead of him in Mikel Arteta's midfield selection, adding to speculation about how much playing time Zubimendi could receive during the remainder of the campaign.
Despite the interest from elsewhere, the Spain international has insisted that his attention remains on earning his place in the Arsenal team and competing for silverware.
Speaking about the transfer speculation on Wednesday, Zubimendi said: “I haven’t wasted any energy on outside things.
“I’m busy enough trying to earn a place, get playing time, and fight to win this Premier League, which is looking so promising. I haven’t spent any energy on it, nor have I contacted anyone.”
Real Madrid links remain around the midfielder
Bayern are not the only European club to have been associated with Zubimendi.
Fabrizio Romano has previously reported that Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is an admirer of the midfielder, having also targeted him during his time in charge of the Spanish club.
Chelsea and Atletico Madrid have also been linked with the 27-year-old, although there is no indication from the latest reports that a January departure from Arsenal is imminent.
For now, Bayern's reported decision removes one potential destination from the conversation, while Zubimendi's own comments suggest his immediate priority is to establish himself in Arteta's plans.
With the January window approaching, his situation at Arsenal is likely to remain a talking point, but the midfielder has made clear that his focus is on helping the Gunners pursue the Premier League title.
