Martin Zubimendi is on the verge of becoming Arsenal’s latest marquee signing, with the Real Sociedad midfielder scheduled for a medical in the coming days ahead of a £51 million move to the Emirates Stadium. Sources close to the negotiations confirmed to Opitanglobamedia Football that all necessary paperwork has been signed between both clubs, effectively sealing the agreement pending a successful medical assessment.
The 26-year-old Spain international has been a top target for Mikel Arteta’s side, and while the scheduling of the medical remains flexible, all parties involved are eager to finalise the deal swiftly. The atmosphere surrounding the deal is calm and confident, a testament to how advanced the negotiations have become.
Once Zubimendi passes his medical, Arsenal are expected to announce the transfer officially, ending months of behind-the-scenes planning and negotiations. With the midfielder’s release clause reportedly set at £51 million, all payment structures and terms between the Premier League giants and Real Sociedad are now fully agreed.
Arsenal’s Midfield Ambitions Take Shape
Zubimendi’s imminent arrival marks a significant step in Arsenal’s strategic rebuild under Mikel Arteta. The Gunners have long admired the Real Sociedad graduate, having tracked him closely over several transfer windows. The Spanish star’s signing is seen as a move to fortify Arsenal’s midfield with fresh dynamism and depth.
In recent seasons, Arsenal have relied heavily on the experience and defensive prowess of Thomas Partey, who started 31 of their 38 Premier League matches in the last campaign. Although the club remains hopeful that Partey will extend his stay with a new contract, the inclusion of Zubimendi offers a younger, more versatile option to rotate or partner in the heart of midfield.
Beyond Zubimendi, Arsenal are also pursuing further reinforcements, particularly up front. Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are reportedly among the shortlisted candidates as the club explores options to strengthen their attacking unit. Meanwhile, discussions over contract renewals for key players such as Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Leandro Trossard, Thomas Partey, and youth prospects Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri are progressing in tandem.
Why Arsenal Coveted Zubimendi
Since making his senior debut for Real Sociedad in 2019, Martin Zubimendi has established himself as one of Europe’s most complete and intelligent holding midfielders. With over 180 La Liga appearances, six goals, and six assists, his numbers may not leap off the page, but his influence on the pitch is profound.
Zubimendi has become renowned for his ability to dictate tempo, link defence with attack, and orchestrate build-ups from deep positions. He completed 84% of his passes in the most recent La Liga season, leading Sociedad in total passes, and consistently setting the rhythm of their play. His composure, vision, and tactical understanding have attracted interest from elite clubs including Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Liverpool — the latter of whom he reportedly turned down last summer.
According to Spanish football expert Guillem Balague, “Zubimendi is perhaps, after Rodri, the best holding midfielder in the world.” Arsenal’s pursuit of such a player signals their ambition to not only compete at the top of the Premier League but to make a deeper impact in European competitions.
A Natural Successor to Partey?
While Thomas Partey has been instrumental in Arsenal’s recent rise under Arteta, injuries and age are beginning to present long-term concerns. At 31, Partey’s physical durability has shown signs of decline, making the acquisition of a younger alternative or partner a prudent move.
Zubimendi, six years Partey’s junior, brings similar defensive solidity but with a more expansive passing range and the ability to function in advanced midfield roles when needed. His versatility allows Arteta to deploy him either as a single pivot or in a double pivot system, depending on tactical needs. Additionally, his experience with the Spanish national team — capped at all levels and a key figure in Euro 2024 — underlines his readiness for elite-level football.
Notably, Zubimendi featured in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, stepping in for an injured Rodri during the final against England. His performance in that high-pressure match further reinforced his reputation as a calm, reliable presence on the biggest stages.
Arsenal’s Summer Strategy: Building for the Future
The signing of Martin Zubimendi is emblematic of Arsenal’s broader summer strategy — invest in technically proficient, tactically astute players who can immediately compete at the highest level. Arteta’s side narrowly missed out on the Premier League title last season and are determined to go one better in the upcoming campaign.
With the addition of Zubimendi and the potential signing of a new centre-forward, the Gunners aim to add depth and quality across key areas of the squad. This approach not only ensures short-term competitiveness but also builds a sustainable foundation for long-term success.
In the context of a busy summer, Zubimendi could be the first of several high-profile additions. If his medical goes as planned, Arsenal fans can expect to see their new midfield maestro don the red and white in pre-season, bringing fresh hope and excitement for the 2025/26 season.
