Martin Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal is set to be “done and signed” after the player travelled to London to complete the formalities of the deal, according to The Athletic journalist David Ornstein.
It has been known for several months that the Gunners were likely to buy the Spanish international but there has been constant speculation that the transfer could be hijacked.
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Real Madrid have been regularly linked with Zubimendi and comments from the player earlier this month didn’t ease fears that the move could collapse.
However, it is now looking like the 26-year-old will pen to paper on his contract and undergo a medical now he is in the country.
Arsenal started talks 10 months ago
It is believed that conversations with Zubimendi’s club Real Sociedad began back in August last year when the Gunners were negotiating a deal for Mikel Merino.
Zubimendi’s transfer to Liverpool had recently collapsed and, while the player was keen to stay in San Sebastian for another season, he was seemingly open to joining Mikel Arteta’s side in the future.
Back in January, it was revealed that a deal had been put in place for the summer transfer window, although it has been suggested that the formalities have been delayed to accomodate a request from Real Sociedad.
How much will Zubimendi cost?
The midfielder does have a €60m (£51m) release clause in his contract but it has been reported by more than one source that Arsenal will be paying above that amount.
For PSR reasons, the London club are expected to hand over slightly more than €60m but the payments will be released in instalments over several years.
Zubimendi is set to replace Jorginho, who left to join Flamengo on a free transfer earlier this month.
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