Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta serving a touchline ban attends the English Premier League football match between Southampton and Arsenal at St Mary's Stadium in Southampton, southern England on May 25, 2025.Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta serving a touchline ban attends the English Premier League football match between Southampton and Arsenal at St Mary's Stadium in Southampton, southern England on May 25, 2025.
Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta serving a touchline ban attends the English Premier League football match between Southampton and Arsenal at St Mary's Stadium in Southampton, southern England on May 25, 2025. | AFP via Getty Images
Arsenal are keen to bolster their squad to challenge for the Premier League title and Champions League next season
Arsenal are looking to advance their summer transfer business as they aim to go one better in the Premier League and Champions League next term.
The Gunners finished second in the league for the third-straight season as injury problems and a number of dropped points from winning positions proved costly for Arteta’s side. The North London outfit also reached the semi-final of the Champions League but lost over two legs to eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain.
Arteta has built a strong side since taking charge at the Emirates Stadium but has lacked depth and an out-and-out striker in recent seasons. He also needs to fill the void in central midfield with Jorginho released while talks are ongoing over Thomas Partey with his deal up in less than a month.
He could leave North London on a free transfer, with a statement earlier this week reading: "Discussions are ongoing, and once matters are finalised between all parties, we will communicate in due course."
Arsenal deal for Martin Zubimendi ‘done’
Arsenal look set to complete a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. That is despite comments earlier this week from the player himself that he has yet to decide his future. He has also been linked to Real Madrid and stated that Xabi Alonso, who has been appointed manager at the Spanish club, is his idol.
He said: “Arsenal are aware of the quotes from Zubimendi – but from what I am told, the deal is considered done at the Emirates. They are not worried, they knew these things might come up when Xabi Alonso was appointed.
“From what I am told, this is happening – it is a done deal. But obviously, the fans want to see that picture of him holding the shirt up, signed and sealed. Until that point, speculation is open to continue.”
What exactly did Martin Zubimendi say about his future
On Alonso, he said: “I have always said that he was my idol and that for me it was lucky that he was able to coach me in the reserve team in a very important year.”
If the Gunners move is in fact a done deal, it is an exciting one for the club. Spain boss Luis de la Fuente said last season that only Manchester City star Rodri was a better defensive midfielder than Zubimendi.
“But you know, and I’ve publicly stated, that for me, Martín is the second-best player in the world [in his position],” said the Spanish national team boss.
“We are incredibly lucky to have these two [Rodri and Zubimendi]—who I consider the best players in the world. But we also have other fantastic players who’ve been here and are with us now.”
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