Arsenal are on the cusp of finalising their first marquee signing of the summer transfer window, with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi reportedly in London to complete the formalities of a £55 million (€65 million) move to the Emirates Stadium.
The 26-year-old Spain international, long admired by manager Mikel Arteta, is set to reinforce Arsenal’s midfield ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, as the Gunners aim to mount a serious Premier League title challenge.
According to multiple reports, Zubimendi was seen at Loiu Airport in Bilbao on Sunday before flying to England to wrap up the long-anticipated move. Arsenal have agreed to pay slightly above the midfielder’s €60 million (£51.4 million) release clause, with the structure of the deal allowing for staggered payments in line with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Real Sociedad requested that the deal be finalised after June 30 to align with their financial year-end, which could delay an official announcement until early July.
Zubimendi, a product of Sociedad’s academy system, has made 236 appearances for the La Liga club, contributing 10 goals and nine assists. He played a vital role in their 2020 Copa del Rey triumph and was instrumental in helping them secure Champions League football. His performances have drawn comparisons to iconic Spanish midfielders Xabi Alonso and Sergio Busquets.
Sky Sports describes Zubimendi as a “complete player,” lauding his intelligence, technical quality, and physicality. He is best known for his composure as a deep-lying playmaker and defensive anchor, offering both metronomic passing and robust protection in front of the back line.
Arsenal journalist Charles Watts confirmed that Arteta has been a long-time admirer of the Spaniard, stating: “Mikel Arteta has been a big fan of Zubimendi since 2023. This is a specific addition to address the No. 6 role, especially with Jorginho’s departure to Flamengo and uncertainty over Thomas Partey’s future.” Partey’s contract is set to expire on June 30, with talks over an extension reportedly stalled.
Securing Zubimendi has not been without competition. Earlier reports suggested Real Madrid, now managed by Xabi Alonso, Zubimendi’s former B-team coach—were considering a late swoop. However, The Athletic reports that Madrid ultimately opted against a move, leaving Arsenal in pole position. The midfielder also rejected approaches from Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool, who had previously failed in their attempts to sign him last summer.
Zubimendi is expected to take the No. 36 shirt upon arrival at Arsenal.
