Arsenal Close In on £52m Martin Zubimendi Deal as Real Sociedad Chief Gives Key Update

Arsenal Close In on £52m Martin Zubimendi Deal as Real Sociedad Chief Gives Key Update

 

Arsenal’s pursuit of a top-class defensive midfielder may finally be nearing its conclusion, with reports suggesting the Gunners are closing in on a £52 million deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi. The Spanish international has long been admired by Mikel Arteta, and a key update from Sociedad’s hierarchy has provided fresh hope for Arsenal fans.

Zubimendi Emerges as Arsenal’s Top Midfield Target

With Thomas Partey’s injury struggles persisting and Jorginho entering the latter stages of his career, Arsenal have been searching for a long-term solution in the holding midfield role. Zubimendi, 25, has been one of La Liga’s most consistent performers over the past few seasons, earning comparisons to Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets for his composure, positioning, and ability to dictate play from deep.

The Spaniard has a €60 million (£52m) release clause in his contract, and Arsenal appear ready to trigger it after Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay confirmed that the club will not stand in his way if he wishes to leave.

Real Sociedad President’s Key Update

In a recent interview, Aperribay addressed Zubimendi’s future, stating:

“We have always said that if a player wants to leave and his clause is met, we cannot do anything. Martin is a fantastic professional, and we respect his decisions. If he chooses to take the next step in his career, we will wish him the best.”

This statement has been interpreted as a green light for Arsenal to formalize their interest, with personal terms not expected to be an issue. Zubimendi has previously been linked with Barcelona and Bayern Munich, but Arsenal’s project under Arteta—coupled with their return to Champions League football—could give them the edge in negotiations.

Why Zubimendi Fits Arteta’s System Perfectly

Arteta’s system relies heavily on a deep-lying midfielder who can break up play, recycle possession, and initiate attacks. Zubimendi excels in all these areas:

– Elite Ball Progression: Averaging over 80 passes per game with a 90%+ accuracy rate.
– Defensive Awareness: Strong in tackles and interceptions, providing crucial cover for the backline.
– Tactical Intelligence: Comfortable in both a single pivot and double pivot, making him adaptable to Arteta’s evolving setups.

His arrival would allow Declan Rice to play a more advanced role, where his box-to-box qualities can be fully utilized.

What’s Next?

 

With Sociedad open to negotiations and Zubimendi reportedly keen on the move, Arsenal could finalize the deal in the coming weeks. The Gunners are also working on other targets, including a striker and a wide forward, but securing Zubimendi would be a major statement of intent ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Will the Spanish midfielder be the missing piece in Arsenal’s title challenge? All signs point to this deal gaining serious momentum.