Arsenal have reached a verbal agreement to sign Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad ahead of the summer transfer window, according to reports by Fabrizio Romano.
The Gunners are expected to activate the 25-year-old’s €60 million release clause, with Real Sociedad formally informed of the club’s intention to trigger the buyout.
The move marks Arsenal’s first major signing of the summer and addresses a key area of need in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Martin Zubimendi has long been on Arsenal’s radar, with the club first expressing interest during the January transfer window.
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Though heavily linked with both Arsenal and Real Madrid in recent months, the midfielder has now chosen to make the switch to north London.
Arsenal’s midfield is set for changes, with Jorginho preparing to join Flamengo and uncertainty surrounding the future of Thomas Partey.
Zubimendi, who previously turned down a move to Liverpool, now appears ready to leave his boyhood club after years of loyalty.
While Arsenal remain cautious due to the player’s prior hesitation to move, confidence is growing within the club that a deal is on track.
Sporting director Edu and recruitment head Jason Ayto played leading roles in the negotiation, while this could become the first major signing under incoming sporting director Andrea Berta.
Zubimendi has been a key figure for both Real Sociedad and the Spanish national team.
His arrival is expected to add composure, tactical intelligence, and technical quality to Arsenal’s midfield as they prepare for another push in the Premier League and Champions League next season.
