Arsenal Secures Martín Zubimendi: A Stellar Signing for the Midfield
Arsenal has finalized the signing of talented Spanish midfielder Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, as announced by the club.
The London club beat out competition from other major European teams by activating Zubimendi’s release clause, valued at 60 million euros (67 million dollars).
The 26-year-old player’s contract with Real Sociedad ended in June 2027.
It is reported that Real Madrid tried to sign Zubimendi when Xabi Alonso replaced Carlo Ancelotti in May, but the agreement with Arsenal had already been finalized in March.
Zubimendi had the opportunity to join the Premier League a year ago, being Liverpool’s first choice to reinforce the defensive midfield. However, he rejected the transfer, opting to remain at Real Sociedad for the 2024-25 season, a decision he later called “the right one”.Martín Zubimendi has signed for Arsenal from Real Sociedad. Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images
Zubimendi, a product of Real Sociedad’s youth academy, played five years with the first team, playing more than 170 matches in all competitions.
The player born in San Sebastián had aroused the interest of Real Madrid this summer after his outstanding performances in LaLiga and with Spain in the Eurocup 2024.
In the final against England, he came on at halftime in place of the injured Rodri and shone in the role of defensive midfielder, contributing to Spain’s 2-1 victory.
Manchester City also closely followed Zubimendi after Rodri suffered a serious knee injury in September.
It is believed that Mikel Arteta played a key role in the conversations with Zubimendi to convince the player to join Arsenal this summer.
Zubimendi will join his former Real Sociedad teammate, Mikel Merino, who signed for the club last summer.
