Arsenal told the fee needed to sign the 'next Sergio Busquets' with the player's 'heart set' on Emirates move

Arsenal have been told the fee needed to sign Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, with the player having expressed an interest in moving to the Emirates.

The Gunners are top of the Premier League, some five points clear of Manchester City with a game in hand.

However, the club are targeting midfielder cover for Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey this month to consolidate their title credentials.

Speaking ahead of the FA Cup fourth-round clash at Manchester City Arteta said: “We need some more cover in midfield ideally if we can.”

One player that has been linked is Sociedad’s Zubimendi, who has starred in La Liga this term.

Zubimendi to Arsenal?

According to the Times Sociedad have told Arsenal that Zubimendi can only sign for Arsenal if they meet his £53million release clause.

The 23-year-old only signed a two-year contract extension with Sociedad in October, which has strengthened the Basque club’s hand in any negotiation for the player.

Zubimendi has starred in Sociedad's engine room this term as the club continues to make strides in La Liga.

Before their 1-0 Copa del Rey defeat at Barcelona on Wednesday, Imanol Alguacil's side had not lost since a 1-0 Europa League defeat to Manchester United back in early November.

Given Sociedad's progress this season the one-cap Spain international reportedly doesn’t want to leave in the middle of the campaign. However, the Daily Mail has claimed Zubimendi has his ‘heart set’ on joining Arteta’s side in the summer.

Barcelona have also been linked with Zubimendi, having allegedly earmarked him as Sergio Busquets' successor in the club’s midfield.

However, when asked to compare the two players Barca boss Xavi insisted there were differences in their respective games.

Xavi said: “They are different. Zubimendi is more physical, faster, and Busquets is better technically.”