Arsenal fans are already eagerly anticipating the arrival of Spain international Martin Zubimendi this summer.
It’s long been believed that Martin Zubimendi will be Arsenal’s first recruit under new sporting director Andrea Berta, even if that crown might now be stolen by Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Arsenal are close to a Kepa agreement and the goalkeeper might arrive at London Colney a week or two before his compatriot.
That being said, Kepa wasn’t called up for Spain’s Nations League final against Portugal on Sunday evening, a game in which Zubimendi starred.
And whilst Spain were ultimately beaten on penalties by Cristiano Ronaldo’s side, it was a game which showcased all of Zubimendi’s talent.
In the 2-2 draw, which was eventually decided after extra-time, Zubimendi played 120 minutes at the heart of Spain’s midfield, the same position he’ll take up for Arsenal.
The likes of David Raya and Mikel Merino watched on from the bench initially, whilst fellow Arsenal target Nico Williams started at left wing.
Photo by Maja Hitij - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Photo by Maja Hitij – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
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But despite playing as the six for Spain, it was actually Zubimendi who opened the scoring with one of his marauding runs forward, which will have excited Arsenal fans watching on.
As a result, Mundo Deportivo described Zubimendi’s performance as ‘indisputable’.
They wrote: “In Rodri’s absence, he settled in and was the most dynamic central midfielder. He opened the scoring with a timely goal.”
El Desmarque also gave an exciting review: “Probably one of the best in Spain. He scored the 0-1 by starting the play and coming from the second line and was quite good with the ball, but he lacked teammates in midfield.”
Of course, Zubimendi will have those midfield teammates ready and waiting in north London, a player who can help elevate Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard to the next level.
Arsenal have booked a medical for Zubimendi
Despite noise of Real Madrid’s late interest, Arsenal are confident of signing Zubimendi this summer, a stance they’ve kept for months.
Arsenal have booked a medical for Zubimendi and the £51m Real Sociedad midfielder should be all set to link up with Mikel Merino at the Emirates.
Unfortunately, the same can’t quite be said for Athletic Club’s Williams right now.
Arsenal might struggle to sign Williams owing to the winger’s desire to play for Barcelona once he leaves his boyhood club.
It’s widely believed that Barcelona won’t be signing a winger this summer, and therefore Williams might decide to stay with Athletic Club.
Either way, Arsenal will have options, and perhaps Berta should try and sign a Premier League winger who has already scored three goals against Arteta’s side.