Zubimendi is a Gunner: Arsenal finalizes £51M deal for the midfielder

Arsenal is reportedly poised to complete a major acquisition in the transfer market, with Real Sociedad's highly-rated midfielder Martin Zubimendi on the brink of moving to the Emirates Stadium. Sources of BBC indicate that all essential paperwork pertaining to the Spain international's transfer has been signed, placing the deal in its concluding stages. The final formality, a successful medical, is currently being organized by Arsenal, with all parties expressing confidence and a desire to wrap up the process swiftly. Once the 26-year-old passes his medical examinations, Arsenal will be ready to formally announce Zubimendi's signing.

The transfer is understood to involve a reported £51 million release clause, with all payment structures between Real Sociedad and Arsenal already mutually agreed upon. This imminent arrival marks the culmination of a long-term pursuit for the Gunners, who have been keen admirers of Zubimendi and have been actively working on securing his services for several months.

Zubimendi’s journey from Real Sociedad’s renowned academy to becoming one of Europe's most coveted midfielders underscores his talent. His profile has attracted significant attention from continental giants, including links to Barcelona and Real Madrid in recent years, and he notably rebuffed an approach from Liverpool last summer.

Since making his Sociedad debut in 2019, Zubimendi has primarily operated as a deep-lying midfielder, a role where he has excelled, though he possesses the versatility to perform in more advanced positions. His addition directly addresses a key area for Arsenal, which relied heavily on Ghanaian international Thomas Partey in the defensive midfield role this past season. While Mikel Arteta's side reportedly desires Partey to sign a new contract, securing Zubimendi will considerably fortify Arsenal's options and depth in the middle of the park, providing critical reinforcement for future campaigns. Zubimendi also proved his mettle on the international stage last summer, delivering a stellar performance off the bench in Spain's 2-1 victory over England in the Euro 2024 final, notably stepping in for the injured Rodri.

A proactive Arsenal!

Zubimendi's impending transfer is part of a broader, proactive strategy by Arsenal to strengthen their squad. In addition to securing the Spanish midfielder, the club is also actively seeking a new centre-forward, with promising talents like Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres reportedly among their preferred targets. Simultaneously, Arsenal is engaged in ongoing contract negotiations with several key existing players, including Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Gabriel, Leandro Trossard, Thomas Partey, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Ethan Nwaneri, highlighting a comprehensive approach to securing their talent for the future.

The arrival of Martin Zubimendi represents a significant step in Arsenal's continued evolution under Arteta, bringing a highly sought-after talent to bolster their midfield core as they aim for sustained success.