Arsenal remain optimistic about landing long-term midfield target Martin Zubimendi this summer, according to The Athletic. The Gunners have been tracking the Spanish international for over a year, and the club is confident that their carefully laid-out approach will finally pay off.
Rather than triggering Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause outright, Arsenal have taken a more diplomatic and strategic path. They’ve chosen to go “through the front door,” making their intentions crystal clear to Real Sociedad from the outset. This approach has helped preserve and even strengthen the good relationship between the two clubs, which has been key throughout negotiations.
One of the major advantages of dealing directly with Sociedad rather than unilaterally activating the clause is the flexibility it offers in terms of payment structure. If Arsenal had chosen to simply pay the release clause, Spanish league regulations would have required them to deposit the full €60m upfront — a considerable financial hit in a summer that is expected to be both competitive and constrained by Financial Fair Play regulations.
Instead, Arsenal are hoping to agree on a more manageable and staged payment plan with the La Liga side. This method allows the Gunners to spread the cost over multiple installments, easing the immediate burden on their transfer budget and allowing them to pursue other key targets during the window. It’s a move that demonstrates not only financial prudence but also long-term planning and transparency.
Mikel Arteta is believed to be a huge admirer of Zubimendi. The 25-year-old has earned a reputation as one of La Liga’s most reliable defensive midfielders, combining tactical intelligence with outstanding passing range and positional awareness. His profile is seen as an ideal complement to Arsenal’s existing midfield core, particularly with uncertainty around the futures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho.
Zubimendi’s composure under pressure, work rate, and ability to dictate tempo from deep could prove invaluable to Arteta’s evolving tactical setup. With Arsenal once again pushing to challenge at the highest level, including another season in the Champions League, the need for quality depth and reliability in midfield has never been greater.
What also works in Arsenal’s favour is the player’s openness to a move. While Zubimendi has remained loyal to his boyhood club, reports suggest he would be open to a new challenge — especially under a coach like Arteta and at a club building toward sustained domestic and European success.
For now, patience and diplomacy remain Arsenal’s key tools. Their respectful handling of negotiations — rather than rushing or trying to force Sociedad’s hand — could ultimately secure them one of the most coveted midfielders in Europe without destabilizing their financial strategy.
If all goes according to plan, Zubimendi could be the first major addition in what promises to be another ambitious transfer window for the Gunners.