Chelsea may have to forget about signing Martin Zubimendi in January after Mikel Arteta made his feelings on the midfielder crystal clear.
The World Cup winner has struggled to secure regular starts for Arsenal this season, which has inevitably led to questions about his future.
Chelsea, according to Goal, have been monitoring the situation, with Xabi Alonso understood to be a long-term admirer of the 27-year-old.
However, Arteta has now sent a message that should make the Blues think twice about pursuing a deal.
Mikel Arteta makes Martin Zubimendi stance clear amid Chelsea links
Speaking ahead of Arsenal's Champions League meeting with Slavia Prague on Wednesday, Arteta insisted Zubimendi remains an important part of his plans.
"He's a very important player for us," the Arsenal manager said, explaining that the midfielder had been unlucky with injuries involving his ankle and nose.
Arteta also praised Zubimendi's attitude, application and willingness to help the team, describing him as an "unbelievable player".
It is hardly the message Chelsea would have wanted to hear.
Zubimendi joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad for £60million in 2025 and was a regular last season. His opportunities have been more limited this time around, with Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, Myles Lewis-Skelly and summer signing Bruno Guimaraes all competing for places in the middle of the park.
That lack of playing time has fuelled speculation about a possible January exit, with reports suggesting the Blues could make an ambitious approach.
Alonso is said to be a huge admirer of his compatriot, and Chelsea still need to add another midfielder following Enzo Fernandez's move to Manchester City.
Chelsea should not waste time chasing an Arsenal player
There is no denying Zubimendi would be a great addition to Chelsea's midfield.
He is technically excellent, intelligent in possession and has the ability to dictate the tempo of a game. Those qualities would make him a top option for Alonso.
However, there is a difference between a player being available and a player simply not starting every week.
Arsenal have invested £60million in Zubimendi and clearly still believe he has an important role to play. Arteta has publicly backed him, while also reminding him that he must take his opportunities when they arrive.
The Blues have no reason to spend a significant fee trying to prise a player away from a direct rival if they have no intention of selling. There are other midfielders who could improve Alonso's squad without requiring Chelsea to negotiate with their London rivals.
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