Arsenal have officially completed the signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi for £51 million, with the Spain international penning a five-year contract at the Emirates Stadium.
The 26-year-old has become Arsenal’s marquee summer signing after the club agreed to pay slightly above his €60 million release clause to secure more favorable payment terms with Real Sociedad. Sources close to the deal suggest Arsenal paid €65 million (approximately £55 million) to finalize the transfer.
Zubimendi recently traveled to London to complete the final stages of his long-awaited move to North London, with reports indicating that the transfer has been “done and signed” for several weeks, with only administrative details causing delays in the official announcement.
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Arsenal’s New Midfield Anchor
The Spanish international, who featured against England in the 2024 European Championship final, is widely regarded as one of the world’s best holding midfielders. Former teammates and coaches have compared his playing style to Liverpool legend Xabi Alonso, praising both his technical quality and leadership character.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been targeting a defensive midfielder to strengthen his squad’s spine, and Zubimendi represents a significant upgrade to the club’s midfield options. The player’s arrival also paved the way for Thomas Partey’s departure, with the Ghana international reportedly entertaining offers from other clubs and his current allegations he has to clear in the court.
Transfer Timeline and Competition
The transfer saga saw late drama when Real Madrid showed interest in hijacking the deal, but Zubimendi ultimately chose to join Arsenal despite the European champions’ approach. The player had initially been content to stay at Real Sociedad for another season before making the move to the Premier League.
Arsenal’s persistence throughout the summer transfer window has paid off, with the club identifying Zubimendi as a key target early in the window and maintaining their pursuit despite rival interest.
What’s Next for Arsenal
With Zubimendi’s signing confirmed, Arsenal are now focusing on securing additional reinforcements, with reports suggesting they are working on another midfield signing and remain in the market for a new striker. The club is understood to have a transfer budget exceeding £100 million for the summer window.
Zubimendi could make his competitive debut for Arsenal during their Premier League opener against Manchester United on August 17, giving fans their first glimpse of the Spanish midfielder in action for the Gunners.
The signing is a statement of intent from Arsenal as they look to compete for major honors in the upcoming season, with Zubimendi’s arrival adding both quality and experience to Arteta’s midfield options.
