Real Madrid Pauses Midfield Search After Rodri Declines; Arsenal Values Zubimendi at £78m

Real Madrid has decided to pause their search for a new midfielder this summer after Rodri turned down their approach. According to Diario AS, the club feels no current midfielders on the market can strengthen their squad.

Aurelien Tchouameni will stay at the Bernabeu after agreeing to a new contract, ending hopes from Manchester United. Fabrizio Romano confirmed that despite interest from the Premier League, Tchouameni has committed his future to Real Madrid.

The midfield transfer market has been lively, with Martin Zubimendi grabbing attention recently. Chelsea's attempt to sign the Arsenal player was met with a minimum asking price of £78 million, according to Mundo Deportivo. Xabi Alonso is eager to bring in his compatriot, but Zubimendi may see reduced playing time following Bruno Guimaraes’s arrival at North London.

After missing out on Julian Alvarez, Barcelona is exploring alternatives. Eli Kroupi Junior drew interest, but his broken foot halted progress. BILD reports that Barcelona might consider shorter-term options such as Alexander Sorloth or Serhou Guirassy.

Aston Villa is intensifying efforts to acquire Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich as Unai Emery rebuilds the squad. Injuries and departures have left gaps in central midfield. Newcastle could challenge Villa since Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg declined a move to St James' Park. Palhinha stands out as an alternative target.

Crystal Palace may break their transfer record to sign Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara. Foot Mercato reveals the Eagles have offered €50 million, slightly less than what they paid for Jorgen Strand Larsen earlier this year. Nottingham Forest is preparing a competing bid, supported by Elliot Anderson.

Midfield Transfer Rumours Summary

• Real Madrid: Halted midfield hunt after Rodri refusal; Tchouameni signs new deal.
• Arsenal: Set £78m price tag on Martin Zubimendi; interest from Chelsea.
• Barcelona: Looking beyond Julian Alvarez; considering Kroupi Junior, Sorloth, Guirassy.
• Aston Villa: Pursuing Joao Palhinha amid injury and departures; facing Newcastle competition.
• Crystal Palace: Offered €50m for Lamine Camara; Nottingham Forest also interested.