Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shut the door on the departure of one of his players to Real Madrid, who are looking to strengthen their squad for the new season under Jose Mourinho.
Real Madrid are keen to bolster their midfield and were linked with Rodri, but the former Manchester City player ultimately chose to join Barcelona.
Martin Zubimendi has emerged as a genuine option for a move to Real Madrid, yet the club has not made any serious moves to sign the Spanish midfielder.
Mikel Arteta put an end to the speculation about Zubimendi's potential transfer to Real Madrid in remarks published by Sky Sports journalist Fabrizio Romano: "No, he is a very important player and is highly valued."
He added: "Without a doubt, he was one of Arsenal's best players last season, and without him we would never have reached the position we achieved in the past few weeks."
It is clear that Zubimendi represents an ideal option for Real Madrid due to his ability to control possession, organize build-up play, and serve as a deep-lying midfielder.
Arsenal will open their Premier League season against Coventry City this evening, while Real Madrid will kick off their La Liga campaign against Espanyol tomorrow.