Arsenal Football Club has completed the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in a deal worth almost £60 million.
The 26-year-old Spanish midfielder has signed a five-year contract with the Gunners, becoming their second major signing of the summer transfer window after Kepa Arrizabalaga’s arrival from Chelsea for £5 million.
Zubimendi, known for his exceptional passing ability, played 236 times for Real Sociedad, scoring 10 goals, and has 19 caps for Spain. He was instrumental in Spain’s Euro 2024 win, coming on as a substitute for Rodri in the final against England.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, expressed his excitement about the signing, stating that Zubimendi will bring “quality and football intelligence” to the team.
Initially targeting Mikel Merino, Arsenal’s recruitment team also set their sights on Zubimendi, despite financial constraints that wouldn’t allow them to sign both players at the time.
Liverpool was also interested in Zubimendi, but he opted for Arsenal due to Arteta’s tactical style and the chance to work with former Sociedad teammates Merino and Martin Odegaard.
Zubimendi’s decision to join Arsenal was influenced by Arteta, who has monitored his performance extensively and admires his ability to control matches with precise passing.
The deal was structured to pay more than Zubimendi’s £51 million release clause, allowing Arsenal to spread the cost over time. This approach is part of Arsenal’s strategic planning under Arteta’s vision, aiming to transform the team from contenders to champions.
With Zubimendi’s signing, Arsenal is also in advanced talks to sign Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres for £70 million and midfielder Christian Norgaard from Brentford for an initial £10 million.
Zubimendi’s arrival marks a significant milestone for Arsenal’s ambitious project, and he has expressed his enthusiasm about joining the team, citing their style of play as a good fit for him. With his wealth of experience and skill, Zubimendi is expected to make a substantial impact on the team.
