Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi responds to Real Madrid links, Anthony Gordon open to Newcastle exit - Euro Transfer News

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In Thursday's edition of Euro Transfer News, Anthony Gordon is reportedly open to leaving Newcastle United this summer amid interest from Bayern Munich - but Martin Zubimendi has distanced himself from joining Real Madrid.

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Zubimendi: Real Madrid rumours have passed

Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi has played down speculation linking him with Real Madrid, insisting the rumours are "in the past" following his summer move from Real Sociedad.

The 27-year-old said he remains "very focused and very happy" in north London despite continued interest from Madrid.

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Zubimendi underlined his importance to Mikel Arteta’s side by playing the full 90 minutes in Wednesday’s goalless draw with Sporting CP, earning the official man of the match award as Arsenal progressed to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals with a 1-0 aggregate victory.

"When I decided to come here it was to live nights like this,” he told Spanish outlet Cadena Ser radio. "There’s only a few weeks left and every game is do or die."

Asked about ongoing reports that Real Madrid want him, Zubimendi added: "That has passed. I'm very focused and very happy where I am. It's not a bad thing [to be linked to Real Madrid.]"

Gordon 'open to Toon exit' amid Bayern reports

Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon is expected to assess his future this summer amid growing interest from across Europe, including Bayern Munich.

While Gordon has not formally requested a transfer, the Daily Telegraph claims there is an expectation internally that he may seek a move, with the club braced for early bids as the player looks to resolve his future ahead of the World Cup.

Newcastle's Anthony Gordon is said to be considering his options

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The Telegraph suggests Newcastle are aware of interest from both domestic and European clubs but would demand a fee in excess of £80 million, dismissing speculation of a £55-60m valuation.

The report reads: "Bayern Munich have been widely credited with an interest in him this week. The Newcastle hierarchy is braced for bids to come early in the summer as the player is keen to get his future sorted before the World Cup."

Arsenal retain a long-standing interest in the England international, while Liverpool - who came close to signing him in 2024 - could also re-enter the race.

"A long-term injury to Hugo Ekitike may force Liverpool to sign another forward in the next transfer window and Gordon’s ability to play across the front three could hold fresh appeal," the Telegraph adds. "He is a boyhood Liverpool supporter and would jump at the chance to return to Merseyside if the opportunity came."

Pochettino 'on shortlist' to become next Madrid boss

Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as a candidate for Real Madrid’s managerial role, according to RMC Sport.

Currently in charge of the United States men's national team (USMNT), Pochettino is set to lead the side at the upcoming World Cup this summer, with his contract due to expire after the tournament.

A return to club management is understood to be a possibility, according to the French outlet.

Madrid are said to be assessing options following their UEFA Champions League exit to Bayern Munich, with Pochettino among the names under consideration to replace Alvaro Arbeloa.

Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly shortlisted for the Real Madrid job

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Club president Florentino Perez has reportedly made initial checks on Pochettino's suitability, while Jurgen Klopp - despite playing down a return to management - and France head coach Didier Deschamps are also reportedly on the shortlist.

The Argentine enjoyed a five-year spell with Tottenham after taking up his first role in England with Southampton. He was less successful during his time at Chelsea, but speaking last month, Pochettino would not rule out a return to the Premier League.

"I miss the football scene in England. I love the country, its culture, the football culture," he said in an interview with L'Equipe.

"For anyone with a competitive spirit who wants to measure themselves against others and test their limits, it's the ideal place. Here, you have to give your best constantly."

Does Nkunku hold key to Vlahovic future at Juve?

Juventus are said to have held off contract talks with striker Dusan Vlahovic until the end of the season, increasing the likelihood of a summer departure amid interest from AC Milan.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Serbia international - whose deal expires in June - will not enter negotiations before the campaign concludes. Juventus are reportedly expected to propose reduced terms compared to his current €12m salary.

Dusan Vlahovic's current deal at Juventus comes to an end this summer

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A recent muscle injury, set to sideline Vlahovic for several weeks, has further delayed discussions.

Juventus general manager Damien Comolli said earlier this month: "I think our transfer strategy will be ambitious regardless [of Champions League qualification].

"I don’t know where we’ll end up, there is talk of fourth place, but it could even be better than that. The Serie A table is tight and we are very ambitious going into the final matches."

Milan remain attentive to the situation and could step up their pursuit, particularly if they move on Christopher Nkunku, whose sale would free up funds for a potential offer.

Nkunku has managed just six goals in 29 appearances this season.

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