Arsenal’s summer transfer window has officially kicked off with a bang. According to reliable sources close to the club, Mikel Arteta has secured his first signing ahead of the 2025/26 season: Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.
The 26-year-old, long admired by Arteta, has reportedly agreed to join the North London side after Arsenal triggered his £50 million release clause. This deal marks a major statement of intent from the Gunners, who are looking to build on their recent domestic and European progress.
Zubimendi’s arrival at the Emirates Stadium comes after months of speculation linking him with a move to the Premier League. The midfield maestro had previously turned down interest from several top European clubs, but it appears Arteta’s vision – and the chance to be a central piece in Arsenal’s project – proved too tempting to ignore.
Why Zubimendi?
A graduate of Real Sociedad’s youth system, Zubimendi has earned a reputation in La Liga as one of the most composed deep-lying midfielders in Europe. His tactical intelligence, pinpoint passing, and ability to dictate tempo under pressure make him a natural successor to the aging Thomas Partey and a perfect complement to Declan Rice.
With Granit Xhaka long gone and Jorginho’s contract nearing its end, Arteta has been keen to reinforce the midfield with a player capable of offering both defensive solidity and technical excellence. Zubimendi ticks all those boxes – and then some.
What This Means for Arsenal
Bringing in a player of Zubimendi’s caliber this early in the window shows how seriously Arsenal are taking the upcoming campaign. After narrowly missing out on the Premier League title last season and falling short in Europe, the Gunners are determined to add depth and quality across the pitch.
Zubimendi is expected to slot into a midfield three alongside Rice and Martin Ødegaard, forming what could be one of the most dynamic trios in English football. His ability to retain possession under pressure and launch attacks from deep will allow Arsenal to control games with even greater authority.
A Strategic Move from Arteta and Berta
This signing also marks the first major deal under new sporting director Andrea Berta, whose arrival from Atlético Madrid signaled a new era in Arsenal’s recruitment strategy. Berta is known for identifying talent that fits a club’s tactical philosophy – and Zubimendi is the perfect embodiment of that vision.
Sources say Arteta was heavily involved in the negotiations, having made the midfielder a top priority since January. His persistence appears to have paid off.
Final Thoughts
Martin Zubimendi’s decision to join Arsenal is more than just a transfer—it’s a signal. A signal that Arsenal are not content with being contenders; they want to be champions. And with a midfield built around Rice, Ødegaard, and now Zubimendi, Arteta is closer than ever to making that dream a reality.
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