Arsenal's Martin Zubimendi Says Links To Real Madrid Are 'Not A Bad Thing'

Martín Zubimendi has dismissed ongoing rumors linking him with a move to Real Madrid, insisting his entire focus is solely on securing silverware with Arsenal. 

The midfielder, who arrived at the Emirates from Real Sociedad for £61 million ($83m) last summer, says he is "very happy" in London as the Gunners prepare for a Champions League semifinal and a decisive Premier League clash against Manchester City.

The Spain international was heavily linked with a switch to the Bernabéu before choosing Arsenal last July, and Madrid continue to be credited with interest. 

Speaking to Cadena Ser, Zubimendi acknowledged that being associated with the European champions is "not a bad thing." 

His decision to join the Gunners was driven by the desire to compete on nights like Wednesday's Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Sporting CP. 

"That has passed," the 27-year-old stated. "I'm very focused and very happy where I am."

(AFP)

The Gunners secured their place in the Champions League semifinals on Wednesday night, navigating a tense goalless draw against Sporting CP to progress 1-0 on aggregate. 

Arsenal have only won one of their last five games in all competitions, but Zubimendi insists their "solid" base for success remains intact. 

"The last few weeks have been strange, but at the beginning of the season we would have signed to be in this position," Zubimendi said. "We still have things to improve. We need more clarity in the last third. Luckily, this team defends well and we are solid."

A formidable semifinal clash against Atlético Madrid now awaits, after Diego Simeone’s side dispatched Barcelona to reach the last four for the first time in nearly a decade. 

Despite Arsenal’s dominant 4-0 victory over the