Arsenal have reportedly shocked Real Madrid by sending the European champions a bullish message about Martin Zubimendi — a player both clubs hope to sign this summer.
The Real Sociedad midfielder has a release clause of £51m and has been courted by Mikel Arteta for 18 months.
Arsenal are in the market for a new central midfield player with Jorginho and Thomas Partey both running out of contract at the end of the season.
The Gunners are not the only ones interested in Zubimendi, however, with Real Madrid, Liverpool and Man City having all kept tabs on the Spain star.