It is almost certain that Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi will become an Arsenal player, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
There has been speculation in Spain that Real Madrid could hijack the deal and, while there is a chance for things to change still, Romano says he is confident the 26-year-old’s move to the Emirates will be confirmed:
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“My understanding on this story is that Martin Zubimendi has agreed on absolutely everything to become a new Arsenal player. There is an agreement with the club since a long time ago. I already said a few months ago the ‘here we go’, because from what I heard, Zubimendi accepted everything Arsenal offered.”
Romano also revealed that Zubimendi has held talks with the manager, with the paperwork having already been sorted:
“He already spoke to Mikel Arteta, he wanted to wait until the formal steps to respect Real Sociedad until the end of the season. The deal is agreed. They’ve already exchanged everything, in terms of documents. It’s just about the medical, put pen to paper, take the pictures, and then Zubimendi will become an Arsenal player.”
Can Real Madrid still stop the transfer from happening?
Romano was careful not to rule anything out despite being pretty certain that Zubimendi would seal his switch to London. When asked about the interest from the Spanish giants, he replied:
“In football, like so many things, never say never, but Arsenal are convinced he will be their player this summer.”
What is holding up Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal?
The Gunners are expected to trigger the €60m (£51m) release clause in the Spanish international’s contract but it has been suggested that they are waiting until the start of July.
It is believed they are doing this as a courtesy to Real Sociedad who want the money to be included in the next accounting year.
In other news, Gooner News have announced the results of our poll for Arsenal Player of the Year