Zubimendi set for Arsenal medical ahead of £51m transfer

Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is on the verge of completing a £51 million move to Arsenal, with a medical set to take place in the coming days.

The Spanish international, who has 17 caps for his country, has been a long-term target for the Gunners and now appears to be closing in on a switch to the Premier League.

According to sources close to the deal, all contractual documents between the two clubs have been signed, and the transfer is now in its final stages. The move is pending a successful medical, which Arsenal are currently in the process of arranging. Despite the formalities, there is a sense of calm among all parties involved, with confidence high that the transfer will be finalized soon.

Zubimendi’s contract includes a £51 million release clause, and Arsenal have already agreed to the payment terms with Real Sociedad.

The 26-year-old’s arrival would significantly strengthen Arsenal’s midfield, especially after a season that saw heavy reliance on Ghanaian international Thomas Partey. While Arsenal remain interested in extending Partey’s contract, Zubimendi offers both depth and quality in the defensive midfield role.

The midfielder has built a strong reputation since emerging from Sociedad’s acclaimed academy and making his first-team debut in 2019. Known for his composure and tactical intelligence, he is capable of playing both as a deep-lying playmaker and in a more advanced midfield role.

Last summer, he demonstrated his international credentials by stepping up in Spain’s Euro 2024 final win over England, replacing the injured Rodri.

Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi is part of a broader transfer strategy as the club aims to reinforce its squad for the upcoming season.

In addition to strengthening the midfield, Arsenal are also targeting a new centre-forward. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres are among the names being considered.

The Gunners are also negotiating new contracts for several key players, including Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Gabriel, and Leandro Trossard.

With the medical imminent and all other aspects of the transfer settled, Arsenal are expected to announce Zubimendi’s signing shortly. His addition could prove pivotal as Mikel Arteta’s side continues to build a squad capable of challenging for major honors in both domestic and European competitions.