Arsenal on the verge of securing first summer signing after Champions League exit

Gidibam Web2 weeks ago

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Image Credit: Getty Images

Arsenal are on the verge of securing Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, with multiple sources, including football.london and ESPN, reporting that the Gunners are in advanced negotiations to trigger the midfielder’s €60m (£51m) release clause.

The 26-year-old Spaniard, a long-term target for Mikel Arteta, is expected to join the Emirates Stadium before the Club World Cup, with posts on X from @jordandaviesj suggesting a deal could be confirmed within weeks.

Zubimendi, a defensive midfielder with 43 appearances for Sociedad this season, has been pivotal in their midfield, contributing two goals and two assists. His decision to stay with his boyhood club last summer, despite Liverpool’s interest, has not deterred Arsenal, who have been tracking him since 2023.

READ MORE: ARSENAL FIGHTING TO PERSUADE WORLD CLASS PLAYER TO STAY AT THE CLUB THIS SUMMER.

Arsenal - Martin Zubimendi — Arsenal are on the verge of securing Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi. [Image Credit: Getty Images]

Real Sociedad’s president, Jokin Aperribay, hinted at Zubimendi’s likely departure in a Radio Marca interview, stating his future will be resolved in June, with the club bracing for a move as they languish in 10th in La Liga.

The Gunners’ confidence stems from new sporting director Andrea Berta’s strategic approach, with Cadena Ser reporting that Arsenal informed Real Madrid the deal was “practically finalised” during Champions League talks.

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This has outmaneuvered interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona, with Zubimendi reportedly favoring Arsenal, per the Daily Mail. The transfer would replace Jorginho, set to join Flamengo, and complement Arsenal’s midfield alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.

For Arsenal fans, Zubimendi’s arrival signals Arteta’s ambition to bolster the squad for a Premier League title push and Champions League success. His physicality, tactical nous, and ability to dictate play align perfectly with Arteta’s vision.

With negotiations at an advanced stage and a £51m fee agreed, per The Mirror, this could be Berta’s first marquee signing, setting the tone for a transformative summer window.