Arsenal Set to Sign Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi for €60 Million

LONDON, England — Arsenal FC has reportedly reached an agreement to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi for €60 million at the end of the 2024-25 season, according to exclusive reports from British media. The deal, which will see the 25-year-old Spanish international join the Gunners, comes after months of negotiations and interest from top European clubs.

Zubimendi, a product of Real Sociedad’s youth academy, has been a key figure for the Basque club, earning recognition as one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been pursuing the player for over a year, with talks now in an advanced stage. “The agreement is practically closed,” sources told the Daily Mail.

Real Sociedad initially resisted letting Zubimendi leave during the current winter transfer window, insisting he remain with the team until the season concludes. Arsenal, however, had hoped for an immediate transfer. The midfielder’s current contract with Real Sociedad runs until 2027, but his €60 million release clause has paved the way for the move.

Zubimendi’s arrival at Arsenal is seen as a strategic move to rejuvenate the squad. With midfielders Jorginho and Thomas Partey both set to see their contracts expire in June, the Gunners are looking to rebuild their midfield. Zubimendi, who has been likened to Manchester City‘s Rodri Hernández, is expected to play a pivotal role in Arteta’s plans.

Liverpool and Manchester City had previously shown interest in Zubimendi, with Liverpool making a formal offer last summer. However, the player chose to remain at Real Sociedad at the time. Pep Guardiola‘s Manchester City also considered Zubimendi as a potential replacement for Rodri, especially after the latter’s recent knee injury.

At Arsenal, Zubimendi will reunite with former Real Sociedad teammate Mikel Merino, who joined the Gunners in 2023. The two have played together in 165 matches, making Merino the fourth-most frequent teammate in Zubimendi’s career.

While Arsenal’s primary focus in the winter transfer window remains securing a striker, the acquisition of Zubimendi underscores the club’s commitment to strengthening its midfield for the future. The deal is expected to be finalized ahead of the 2025-26 season, marking a significant coup for the North London club.