Arsenal’s First Summer Signing: Zubimendi Committed to Real Sociedad Until Season’s End

Martin Zubimendi will be Arsenal’s first summer signing for the 2025/26 season. The Spanish midfielder, however, remains committed to Real Sociedad for the remainder of this campaign.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The North London club have verbally agreed an initial long-term deal with Zubimendi that will see them trigger his €60 million (£51m) release clause following the end of the current campaign. Before that, however, they will conclude all formalities regarding his transfer over the coming months and will then complete the final steps of the swoop in the summer.

Despite sealing his dream move to the Premier League, The Spaniard has made it clear that he wants to be 100% committed to the Spanish club Real Sociedad and his professionalism has thoroughly impressed the staff at his current club.

WHAT SETBACK DID ARSENAL SUFFER IN FEBRUARY?

Arsenal had been chasing Zubimendi since the winter transfer window of the 2022/23 season. But the Basque midfielder snubbed a move at that point, with the club missing out on a much-needed engine room option.

The Gunners, eventually, suffered a premature exit in the Champions League after losing out to Serie A giants Juventus which further delayed their pursuit. But that misfortune has since proven to be a blessing for the club as they are now closing in on his signing despite competition from Real Madrid and the Catalans.

WHEN WILL ARSENAL ANNOUNCE ZUBIMENDI’S HAALAND-LIKE DEAL?

Arsenal could announce Zubimendi’s move as early as March if they wrap up all formalities within the deadline. The midfielder will then be loaned back to Real Sociedad until the end of the season and his long-term contract will begin next summer – the same way Erling Haaland’s winter move to Arsenal last season panned out.

Zubimendi will become the London club’s first summer signing of 2025 and the first of a number of high-profile deals, according to sources. The club are planning recruitment across all positions in the off-season and completing this high-profile signing could be the first of a number of deals.