Arsenal summer transfer activity has taken a major leap forward with the arrival of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi in London to complete his long-anticipated move to the Emirates Stadium, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic.
The 26-year-old Spain international is set to become Arsenal’s first marquee signing of the summer window, with the Gunners beating off competition from Europe’s elite to land one of La Liga’s standout midfielders. Sources indicate the total fee will reach around €65 million (£55m), slightly above Zubimendi’s €60 million (£51.7m) release clause. The payment will reportedly be structured in installments to maintain the strong relationship between the two clubs.
Zubimendi’s arrival marks the culmination of a long-term pursuit led by manager Mikel Arteta, who has been keen to reinforce his midfield following the departure of Jorginho to Flamengo and the expected exit of Thomas Partey. The Spaniard’s tactical intelligence, composure on the ball, and passing range are seen as an ideal fit for Arteta’s possession-based system.
“His passing might sound simple, but he generally chooses well the one pass to do. He’s a very clever player,” Spanish football expert Guillem Balague told BBC Sport.
Zubimendi, who made 36 league appearances for Real Sociedad last season, scoring twice and providing two assists, is expected to undergo his medical, fulfill media duties, and wrap up final formalities in London this week. However, an official announcement may not come until early July, as Real Sociedad have requested the transfer be finalised in the new financial year.
The deal wasn’t without its hurdles. Real Madrid briefly explored a move, with manager Xabi Alonso, himself a former Sociedad player reportedly interested in bringing Zubimendi to the Bernabeu. Liverpool also registered interest last year, but the midfielder opted to remain at his boyhood club at the time.
Zubimendi will reunite at Arsenal with former Real Sociedad teammate Mikel Merino and club captain Martin Ødegaard, as Arteta looks to build a deeper, more dynamic midfield capable of sustaining a title challenge and competing in Europe.
Arsenal are also expected to remain active in the transfer market, with striker reinforcements high on the agenda. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres are among the names heavily linked as the Gunners aim to add firepower up front.
