Arsenal has officially signed the highly regarded Spanish midfielder Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, as announced by the club. The North London side overcame stiff competition from leading European clubs by activating Zubimendi’s release clause of 60 million euros (approximately $67 million).
At 26, Zubimendi’s contract with Sociedad was set to expire in June 2027. ESPN sources indicate that Real Madrid attempted to secure his signature after Xabi Alonso took over from Carlo Ancelotti in May; however, an agreement with Arsenal had already been made in March.
A year prior, Zubimendi had the chance to move to the Premier League, as he was Liverpool’s top target for a defensive midfielder, but opted to remain at Sociedad for the 2024-2025 season.
The San Sebastian native, who joined Sociedad’s youth ranks, accumulated over 170 appearances with the first team. His impressive performances in La Liga and at Euro 2024 this summer drew interest from Real Madrid, particularly after he stepped in for the injured Rodri during Spain’s 2-1 victory against England in the finals.
Manchester City also expressed interest in him after Rodri’s serious knee injury last September. Mikel Arteta is said to have played a crucial role in persuading Zubimendi to join Arsenal this summer, where he will reunite with former Sociedad teammate Mikel Merino, who joined the club last year.
This news is significant for soccer fans as it highlights Arsenal’s ambition to bolster their midfield. Zubimendi’s addition could enhance the team’s competitiveness in both domestic and European competitions, underscoring the ongoing evolution of transfer dynamics in top-tier football.
