Arsenal Secure Martin Zubimendi as First Summer Signing

Arsenal have signed Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad for around €64-65 million. The fee will be paid in installments. This is their first signing before the 2025-26 Premier League season.

According to a previous report we published, Arsenal signed Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Zubimendi came to London to finalize his transfer. He has now signed the necessary documents, making him an official Arsenal player. For a long time, the 26-year-old was linked with a move to the Emirates, but Arsenal could not previously convince him to leave Real Sociedad.

This time, manager Mikel Arteta led the pursuit and defeated late interest from Real Madrid. Zubimendi has vast experience, having made 236 appearances for Real Sociedad over the years. He played a key role in their midfield. Arsenal decided to pay slightly above Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause for favorable payment terms, and will strengthen their squad ahead of a new campaign.

According to a previous report we published, Arsenal signed Martin Zubimendi for a fee slightly higher than €60 million.

ARSENAL’S MIDFIELD EVOLUTION

The club plans to reshape their midfield, with Jorginho moving to Flamengo and Thomas Partey expected to leave soon. Arteta wants Zubimendi to enhance his team’s control in the middle of the park as the Gunners look to build momentum on their progress from last season.

Arsenal finished second in the Premier League last season, just missing out on the title to Manchester City. Zubimendi’s passing, defensive awareness, and work rate are seen as ideal characteristics to help Arsenal close the gap in the title race.

According to a previous report we published, Zubimendi played 42 games for Real Sociedad and helped them win the Copa del Rey and qualify for the UEFA Champions League.

LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEW SEASON

The new signing is expected to immediately step into Arsenal’s midfield and is likely to make his competitive debut in their first league encounter against Manchester United. With the signing, the North London club hopes to maintain their championship bid while also improving their performance in Europe after being eliminated in the Champions League quarter-finals last season.

The player Real Sociedad is looking to reinvest the transfer money as they are undergoing a squad rebuild, having finished sixth in La Liga last season. Arsenal’s next competitive match is against Manchester United in August. The Red Devils finished third in the league last season, just two points behind Arsenal. The Gunners expect the 26-year-old signing to be crucial as they chase their first Premier League title since 2004.

According to a previous report we published, Arsenal’s first signing of the summer is Martin Zubimendi, who replaces Thomas Partey.