Arsenal fans have had their eyes on one name for weeks: Martín Zubimendi. The interest is not new. Since January, there has been talk of serious moves by the English club. However, in recent weeks, reports have been confusing and contradictory.
Some media outlets point to a deal being done. Others suggest that the player is still undecided. Meanwhile, anxiety is growing among those who want to see the midfielder in a Gunners shirt. The situation is reminiscent of the classic tug-of-war of the summer transfer market, where one word can change everything.
This week, according to [BBC Sport journalist Sami Mokbel](https://x.com/SamiMokbel_BBC/status/1927682983835668892), Arsenal and Real Sociedad have reached an agreement for the transfer of Zubimendi. The player is reportedly ready to undergo a medical examination in the coming days. However, different messages are coming out of Spain. The president of the San Sebastian club, Jokin Aperribay, made it clear in statements reported by Sport Witness that he does not yet see anything as finalised. He even said that they have asked the player to reflect on the matter during his time with the national team. This contrast has kept the uncertainty alive.
From a practical perspective, Zubimendi would fit perfectly into Arteta’s system. He is 26 years old, combines positional intelligence with tactical awareness, and provides balance from the pivot without needing to embellish.
The Basque coach needs a central midfielder who combines simplicity with efficiency, and the San Sebastian native meets both requirements. His signing would give the team defensive stability without detracting from the dynamism of the game. It would also allow Declan Rice to focus more on his role as an inside midfielder, providing more attacking threat and physical presence closer to the opposition’s area.
The connection with Mikel Merino, an old acquaintance of the player at Real Sociedad, may also be a factor. They have already played together in a double pivot at Anoeta, with very solid results. Arteta would not only gain a player with European experience, but also a cohesive duo. In tactical terms, Zubimendi offers a clean ball outlet and knows how to take responsibility under pressure. He has character without being loud, something that is valued in the Premier League.
However, not everything is so clear-cut. Real Sociedad’s stance could be a strategy to obtain a higher financial return. Or perhaps the player is genuinely torn between the English challenge and the option of waiting for Real Madrid, a club he has been linked with on several occasions. In that sense, Arsenal should close the deal without prolonging the suspense any further. The longer this situation drags on, the more options appear for third-party clubs.
In my opinion, they should go for him without hesitation. He is a smart signing, with immediate impact, and represents what Arteta wants to build in midfield. If the club wants to take a firm step towards the title, it needs players of this profile. It would be a mistake to wait any longer. In terms of profile, age and maturity, Zubimendi is the piece that fits right where it is needed.