Arsenal are close to the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.Arsenal are close to the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.
Arsenal are close to the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
A La Liga midfielder is set to undergo a medical with Arsenal ahead of a summer transfer switch to north London.
Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is preparing to undergo a medical at Arsenal ahead of a summer transfer move to the Premier League outfit in what will be Andrea Berta’s first marquee signing as sporting director.
The club’s interest in the Spain international has been no secret and it has been widely speculated that the 26-year-old would be confirmed as the first arrival of the summer. Arsenal were said to have already agreed personal terms with the player, whose €60 million (£50 million) release clause is set to be unlocked by the London outfit.
ESPN now claim that the medical process is the last step before that deal is completed and that it is now booked in. Zubimendi has also been targeted by Real Madrid and is believed to have rejected a move to Liverpool last summer. Writing on X last August, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano said: “Martín Zubimendi has rejected Liverpool with formal communication to the club tonight. Real Sociedad efforts to keep Zubi crucial to make it happen, he’s staying with new deal also ready soon.”
Martin Zubimendi set for Arsenal medical
While the Arsenal priority remains in recruiting a talisman this summer, the midfield is another key area for investment. Jorginho is set to leave at the end of his contract while discussions are currently ongoing with Thomas Partey. The Ghana international’s deal also expires this summer but is more likely to sign an extension at the Emirates Stadium than the former Chelsea man.
Arteta was asked about Partey’s future ahead of the final Premier League game against Southampton. He said: “There's some question marks on a few of them, so we'll have to wait and see. We still have another Premier League match to play on Sunday and after that, we have some time to sit down and finalise a few things that have to be done. In regards to Thomas, I think consistency-wise it's been his best season. I think the way he's played and performed, his availability has been exceptional and he's a really important player for us.”
The arrival of Zubimendi is a major coup for the club as the Gunners prepare for the 2025/26 campaign with the hope of finally getting their hands on the Premier League title under Arteta. The midfielder was a Euro 2024 winner with Spain and would arrive at the Emirates Stadium with Champions League and Europa League experience.
Arteta tips Andrea Berta for Gunners success
Former Atletico Madrid chief Berta is now in charge of Arsenal transfer negotiations, having taken on that post from Edu. Berta was prolific in his dealings in Spain and has been backed by Arteta to make a real difference in the window.
The Arsenal manager said: “I think he’s going to be a big contributor with his experience, and the fact that he’s already won in very difficult contexts and the way he’s built teams, he is exceptional. I think we have to share that responsibility and Andrea is going to be a key part to driving the plans and the ideas we have and try to execute them and we are here to support him.”
In other news, Premier League early predicted table 2025/26 as Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham's chances rated.
Continue Reading