Arsenal have confirmed the high-profile signing of Spanish international Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in a deal worth close to £60 million. The 26-year-old midfielder becomes the Gunners’ second major acquisition of the summer, following the arrival of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for £5 million.
Zubimendi, known for his composure and tactical awareness, has signed a five-year contract with the North London club. A product of Sociedad’s academy, he made 236 appearances for the Spanish side, scoring 10 goals and cementing his place as a reliable deep-lying midfielder.
“This is a huge moment in my career,” Zubimendi said following the announcement. “It’s the move I was looking for and one I wanted to make. As soon as you set foot here, you realise how big this club and this team are. I set my sights on Arsenal because their style of play is a good fit for me. They have shown their potential recently and the best is yet to come.”
The Spanish midfielder comes into the Arsenal squad fresh off international success. He played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, coming off the bench in the final to replace Manchester City’s Rodri and helping his team clinch the title against England through Mikel Oyarzabal’s winner. Zubimendi has earned 19 caps for Spain, stepping up in Rodri’s absence due to injury and scoring in the Nations League final against Portugal, though Spain ultimately lost on penalties.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the new signing, expressing confidence in Zubimendi’s potential impact. “Martin is a player who will bring a huge amount of quality and football intelligence to our team,” Arteta said. “He will fit in really well and has all the attributes to be a key player for us. The standard he has consistently performed at over the last few seasons for both club and country is exactly why we are so excited to have him with us.”
In addition to Zubimendi and Kepa, Arsenal are actively pursuing further reinforcements. Talks are ongoing with Sporting CP over a potential £70 million deal for striker Viktor Gyokeres. The club has also reached an agreement with Brentford for midfielder Christian Norgaard in a deal worth an initial £10 million, further strengthening their midfield depth ahead of the upcoming season.
