Arsenal Close to Signing Martin Zubimendi

According to reports from England, Arsenal are on the verge of securing a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The Daily Mail exclusively reports that the Gunners are set to trigger the player’s £51 million (€60 million) release clause at the end of the season.

Respected transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano also confirms the ongoing negotiations: “Arsenal are in advanced talks to sign Martin Zubimendi for the summer of 2025. Negotiations with the player are underway, and positive discussions have already taken place between the two parties. Final key steps are still pending. Arsenal plans to activate a €60 million release clause.”

This news may come as a surprise to Real Sociedad fans, as the club’s sporting director, Roberto Olabe, recently stated in an interview with Movistar+ that the situation surrounding Zubimendi had calmed down after months of speculation. The 25-year-old midfielder is a crucial player for Real Sociedad, having played 22 matches and accumulated nearly 1900 minutes this season.

Zubimendi is highly regarded in the transfer market and considered one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. Last summer, clubs like Liverpool and Barcelona were willing to pay his release clause, but the player chose to stay with Real Sociedad. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is known to be a great admirer of Zubimendi and has made him a priority target for his team.

While sources in England suggest the deal is nearly complete, the final decision will ultimately rest with the player. Although Real Sociedad has managed to retain Zubimendi in similar situations before, reports indicating his interest in moving to London appear to be serious this time.