Arsenal is on the verge of securing Real Sociedad’s highly-rated midfielder, Martin Zubimendi, in a £51 million deal set to be completed this summer. The Gunners are confident the 26-year-old Spanish international will join the Premier League side, signaling a key acquisition for manager Mikel Arteta. Despite interest from top clubs like Real Madrid, Arsenal are leading the race, poised to activate Zubimendi’s release clause.
Jokin Aperribay, president of Real Sociedad, confirmed that Zubimendi’s future will be resolved in June. Although the exact details of the transfer remain under wraps, it appears the Basque club has come to terms with the fact that the player will likely move on. Aperribay commented, “We’ll see what happens. All I ask of him is one last effort to qualify for Europe and whatever happens, will happen in June. There’s no point in speculating now about whether he’ll be there. He’s had several opportunities to leave and he’ll make the decision he wants, because he’ll have more options.”
Zubimendi had previously turned down a move to Liverpool last summer, but now he seems ready to make the switch to the English top flight. Although Real Madrid continues to monitor his progress, the midfielder appears intent on testing himself in the Premier League, with Arsenal offering him the perfect stage.
When asked about the possibility of Zubimendi extending his stay with Real Sociedad, Aperribay dismissed the notion, saying, “I don’t remember our last conversation. When I talk to him, it’s more about goals, pushing… There’s one month left, and we’re playing against opponents who can beat us, but we can also beat them all. There are no easy or difficult matches. Martin is part of that. I don’t know if it’s difficult for him to stay. We haven’t tried to raise the clause.”
The speculation about Zubimendi’s transfer coincides with changes at Real Sociedad, including the announcement that head coach Imanol Alguacil will leave at the end of the season. The club’s difficult season, coupled with their struggle for European qualification, makes it clear that a summer rebuild is underway.
For Arsenal, Zubimendi’s arrival is not linked to the future of Thomas Partey, as discussions continue over the Ghanaian’s potential contract extension. However, with Jorginho expected to leave in June, Arteta is keen to bolster his midfield, and Zubimendi fits the bill. The Spanish international, known for his technical prowess and strong defensive capabilities, has long been a target for Arteta, who is eager to strengthen his squad for a potential title push next season.
