Arsenal are ready to step up plans for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

Zubimendi is aware of the Gunners' interest, having come close to joining Barcelona over the summer.

Arsenal are eyeing Zubimendi as a replacement for Thomas Partey, who is a winter market target for Juventus.

Gunners manager Mikel Arteta is reluctant to lose Partey, but if he is to leave then Zubimendi will be targeted.

The Mirror says Arteta is a fan of Zubimendi and pushing technical director Edu to make a move in January.