Former Arsenal sporting director Edu is said to have put in a 'massive amount of work' to secure a £51million deal for Martin Zubimendi. Despite leaving the Gunners to join Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis' multi-club structure, Edu looks to have still played a key role in helping Mikel Arteta secure one of his most crucial signings ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Gunners have been heavily linked with Zubimendi and football.london understands that work is in place to bring the Real Sociedad star to the club. The defensive midfielder is tipped to make a switch to the Emirates Stadium at the end of the season, bolstering the depth of Arteta's midfield.
However, some Spanish outlets have reported that Real Madrid are nearing a deal. As per The Athletic, though, Arsenal are confident that Zubimendi will be their player next season. The report indicates that a 'massive amount of work' was carried out during Edu's time to make the deal happen.
It remains uncertain whether the transfer is 'completely done'. Nevertheless, the north London side are operating under the assumption that Zubimendi will join them in the summer, reports the Express.
Jason Ayto, who stepped in as interim sporting director following Edu's exit in December, has also been working on an agreement to sign the 26-year-old. Andrea Berta is anticipated to be announced as Edu's permanent successor shortly.
Berta, formerly of Atletico Madrid, is bracing for a hectic start to his Arsenal tenure. The Gunners are in dire need of several reinforcements this summer if Arteta is to finally clinch the Premier League title next season.
Arsenal, who have found it challenging to keep up with Liverpool and currently trail the Reds by 12 points, may need at least two new signings to round off Arteta's squad. If a deal for Zubimendi goes through, securing a centre-forward will be Berta's primary focus.
Alexander Isak has been heavy linked with a move to Arsenal, but it remains uncertain whether the Gunners will have the funds to finalise such a transfer from Newcastle. RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike are also reportedly on Arsenal's watchlist.
Another winger could also prove advantageous for Arsenal. Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams has been a long-standing target.
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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus with the Arsenal Therapy Dog Win during the Arsenal Men's team group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023
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