Arsenal have officially announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. The 26-year-old has joined the Gunners on a long-term contract, solidifying their midfield options. Zubimendi's arrival follows the signing of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea, marking Arsenal's second major signing of the summer.
The transfer fee is reported to be just over his release clause. Rather than triggering the clause directly, Arsenal negotiated slightly above that figure to structure the payment in installments – a key factor in closing the deal under their financial strategy this summer. Reports indicate that Arsenal agreed to a £51 million deal for the Spain international. Some reports suggest the deal is worth over £50 million. Other reports indicate Arsenal paid slightly more than Zubimendi's €60 million release clause.
Zubimendi has been a long-term target for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. The midfielder is considered a technically gifted and tactically intelligent player, known for his positional discipline and passing ability in deep-lying areas. His arrival is expected to bolster Arsenal's midfield, especially after recent departures that have depleted the squad. Zubimendi is anticipated to slot directly into the base of the midfield, potentially allowing Declan Rice to play in a more advanced role.
Several top clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, also coveted Zubimendi. However, he chose to join Arsenal, with Arteta playing a crucial role in convincing him that Arsenal was the right club. Zubimendi himself stated that Arsenal's style of play was a good fit for him. He also noted the presence of fellow Spaniard Mikel Arteta as a factor in his decision. "We have a lot in common. We come from the same city and played for the same teams. We'll have something to talk about off the pitch, I'm happy about that".
Zubimendi is highly regarded, with some in Spain labeling him as possibly the best central midfielder in La Liga. He excels at controlling tempo and rhythm, and he is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure when playing out from the back. His precise passing and ability to break lines are seen as key attributes that will benefit Arsenal.
During his time with Real Sociedad, Zubimendi made over 180 appearances and established himself as one of Europe's top defensive midfielders. He also won the European Championship with Spain. His former teammates and coaches have compared him to Xabi Alonso.
Arsenal fans can anticipate seeing Zubimendi in action during the pre-season, where the team will face AC Milan, Newcastle, and Tottenham Hotspur. Zubimendi will wear the No. 36 shirt for Arsenal. His arrival is expected to be followed by the signing of Christian Norgaard from Brentford as part of a midfield overhaul. Arsenal are also targeting other players, including Noni Madueke from Chelsea and Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP, to further strengthen their squad.
