Arsenal - Martin Zubimendi
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Former Premier League star Shaun Wright-Phillips has cast doubt on Arsenal ’s transfer strategy following reports that the Gunners are close to sealing a £51 million deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
Arsenal are reportedly on the verge of securing their first major signing of the summer, having triggered the €60 million release clause in Zubimendi’s contract. The 26-year-old Spanish international, widely regarded as one of Europe’s top defensive midfielders, is expected to undergo a medical ahead of his move to the Emirates Stadium.
While many have hailed the move as a statement of intent given that Zubimendi had previously been linked with the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City, and Real Madrid, Wright-Phillips believes Arsenal may be overlooking more urgent issues in the squad.
Speaking to Prime Casino, the former Manchester City and Chelsea winger said: “I’m not sure why Arsenal are going so hard for another midfielder when their issue has been putting the ball in the net.”
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“Zubimendi’s a quality player, no doubt, but they’ve got Declan Rice, and Thomas Partey’s still there for now. You look at their season, scoring chances hasn’t been the problem, it’s finishing them. They need a proper striker, someone like a Gyokeres or Sesko, to take them to the next level.”
Arsenal
Shaun Wright-Phillips (Image credit: Getty Images)
The Gunners’ lack of a clinical striker proved costly last season as they fell short in key moments despite reaching the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League and Carabao Cup and finishing runners-up in the Premier League for a third consecutive year. Though Mikel Arteta’s side created a high volume of chances, their conversion rate left much to be desired, an issue many believe can only be solved with the signing of a prolific No. 9.
Arsenal have been linked with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, but so far no agreement has been reached for either striker.
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Zubimendi is expected to fill the gap left by Jorginho, who recently joined Flamengo, and may also serve as a long-term replacement for Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian midfielder’s future remains uncertain as he enters the final year of his contract, with interest from clubs such as Barcelona, Juventus, and several sides in the Saudi Pro League.
Despite Wright-Phillips’ concerns, many view Zubimendi as a smart and strategic addition to Arsenal. Known for his calmness on the ball, defensive awareness, and intelligent positioning, the Spain international has drawn comparisons to Xabi Alonso. His arrival could also allow Declan Rice more freedom to push forward, potentially unlocking greater attacking output from midfield.
Sky Sports’ Nick Wright echoed this sentiment, stating: “Arsenal believe they are acquiring one of the world’s best holding midfielders in Martin Zubimendi, and they are not the only ones.”
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