Arsenal set to sign £51m Spanish midfielder to complement Rice

While Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes have faded, the club’s future remains bright after an impressive 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the Champions League. The victory, achieved without key players like Kai Havertz and Gabriel, demonstrated the team’s quality and depth.

As Arsenal look to build on their progress, new sporting director Andrea Berta is focused on strengthening the squad this summer. While a new striker remains the top priority, with Alexander Isak an ambitious target, the club are also looking to bolster their midfield options.

According to respected journalist David Ornstein, Arsenal are “expecting” to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi for his £51m release clause. The Spanish international has been a long-term target for the Gunners, who have done extensive scouting work on the player.

Zubimendi’s arrival could allow Declan Rice to play in a more advanced midfield role next season. While Rice has excelled as a holding midfielder, his attacking qualities have shone through recently, including two excellent free-kicks against Real Madrid and an impressive assist against Brentford.

The potential midfield partnership of Zubimendi and Rice is an exciting prospect for Arsenal fans. Zubimendi’s ability to dictate play from deep and press high up the pitch could give Rice more freedom to influence games in the final third. This tactical shift could help Rice establish himself as one of Europe’s elite all-round midfielders.

With Thomas Partey and Jorginho’s contracts expiring, Zubimendi’s signing would help refresh Arsenal’s midfield options. While he may not directly replace Partey’s ball-carrying ability, Zubimendi’s passing range and tactical intelligence could allow Arsenal to control games in a different way.

As Arsenal aim to compete for major trophies next season, the potential addition of Zubimendi alongside Rice could give Mikel Arteta’s side one of the strongest midfields in the Premier League. The Spanish midfielder’s arrival may prove to be a crucial piece in Arsenal’s quest for silverware.