Arsenal fans waiting for confirmation of **Martin Zubimendi’s move to the Emirates Stadium** won’t have to wait much longer. According to Spanish outlet _COPE_, the **26-year-old Spanish midfielder’s transfer will be made official in the first week of July**, with all terms agreed between the clubs. The slight delay in the announcement is due to **Real Sociedad’s preference to register the deal in their 2025/26 financial year**, rather than the current one.
The Gunners will pay **€65 million**, slightly above Zubimendi’s **€60 million release clause**, in a **three-instalment payment structure** — a solution that suits both parties financially and maintains their strong working relationship.
### **Why the Delay?**
Despite reports of the deal being “done and signed” for several weeks, the official announcement was pushed to **early July** at the request of Real Sociedad. The Basque club were keen to ensure the revenue from Zubimendi’s sale would not appear on their 2024/25 financial books, thereby improving their profit-and-sustainability metrics heading into the new season.
This decision was accepted by Arsenal, who had already internally planned for Zubimendi’s arrival and even tailored their summer midfield plans around his integration. Both clubs have worked cooperatively throughout the process, and the player has remained calm, knowing his move to North London is imminent.
### **A Key Addition for Arteta**
Zubimendi’s signing is a major boost for Mikel Arteta, who has been eager to add a deep-lying midfielder with top-level experience and composure in possession. The Spain international has long been admired by Arsenal’s scouting team and sporting director Andrea Berta, with serious interest dating back to last summer.
Zubimendi will slot into a midfield that includes **Declan Rice**, **Martin Ødegaard**, and the newly-departed **Jorginho**, providing tactical balance and the ability to control the tempo from deep. Known for his intelligent positioning, ball retention, and calm leadership, he is widely seen as one of the most consistent holding midfielders in La Liga.
### **Deal Structure Highlights Smart Business**
By paying slightly more than the release clause — **€65 million instead of €60 million** — Arsenal have negotiated the ability to spread the cost across **three instalments**, easing immediate financial pressure and allowing flexibility for other signings this summer. This aligns with the club’s current strategy of smart spending while building a squad capable of long-term success.
Zubimendi is expected to be officially unveiled in early July and will join the team for **pre-season training** shortly afterward.
### **Final Touches Being Prepared**
All legal documents are in place, and Arsenal are now preparing the media and promotional side of the unveiling. Fans can expect the full announcement, including interviews, training shots, and kit presentation, during the first week of July — just before the squad travels for pre-season matches in Singapore.
### **Conclusion**
Martin Zubimendi’s arrival is a statement of intent from Arsenal — a methodical, well-negotiated transfer that reflects their maturity in the market. The deal may not yet be official, but the **midfield maestro is all but a Gunner**, and his influence could be pivotal in Arsenal’s continued push for domestic and European success.