Arsenal and Man City ‘dream’ of signing midfielder who rejected Liverpool but Reds have not given up hope

ARSENAL and Manchester City could battle for Martin Zubimendi next month, according to reports.

The midfielder has caught the eye of Europe's top clubs with his performances for Real Sociedad and Spain.

Man City are in the market for a defensive midfielder with key man Rodri out for the season.

Arsenal are also understood to be interested in Zubimendi, who reportedly turned down a summer move to Liverpool.

Fabrizio Romano revealed the clubs who are monitoring the 25-year-old, though explained why a January move could prove tricky.

He told : “There is a player who is a dream target for all the top clubs around Europe – for Liverpool, Man City, Arsenal and many others – it’s Martin Zubimendi.

“They all want to sign Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, the real point is that Zubimendi at the moment is still not opening the door to a January exit.

“Next summer could be different but for January the situation is still quiet around him so I'm not sure it will be possible.”

Zubimendi is believed to have a £51.7million buyout clause in his Sociedad contract, although even if that is triggered it could prove difficult to persuade the Spaniard to leave.

He said earlier this year: “The best solution is staying. I want to grow and develop here.”

BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS

However sources insist Zubimendi has had a change of heart and is keen to play in the Premier League after all.

And that has put City on high alert.