Xabi Alonso has already told Arsenal fans what Martin Zubimendi is like as Andrea Berta agrees deal

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Arsenal fans woke up to some exciting transfer news on Saturday.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Andrea Berta has agreed a deal to sign Martin Zubimendi, and all that’s left is for Arsenal to trigger his release clause.

That is fantastic news for Gooners, who have known for a while now that Zubimendi is a key target for Mikel Arteta ahead of next season.

So, what can Arsenal fans expect from Zubimendi after he dons the famous red and white? Xabi Alonso has already explained what type of player the Spanish midfielder is.

What Xabi Alonso once said about Arsenal-bound Martin Zubimendi

Xabi Alonso is one of the greatest midfielders football has ever seen.

The legendary Spaniard was great during his time at Liverpool in England, was significantly better at Real Madrid and continued to play at the highest level at Bayern Munich as well.

Alonso is exactly the kind of midfielder Arsenal need right now, and Martin Zubimendi has several similar traits to his former manager at Real Sociedad.

Thomas Partey’s role is expected to diminish if he stays this summer, while Jorginho has agreed to leave Arsenal for Flamengo at the end of his contract.

Zubimendi is expected to fill that number six role, and Alonso’s verdict on him should excite Arsenal supporters.

The soon-to-be Real Madrid boss told The Guardian in 2022: “Martin’s a player all coaches would want.

“He’s generous, he always thinks more about his teammates than himself. He has that ability to generate play, to make those around him better, always offering solutions; to improve the move.

“He understands what the next step is before the ball gets to him. He has the ability to organise the axis. I loved working with him.”

READ MORE: Martin Zubimendi reveals his ‘all-time favourite’ shirt number ahead of Arsenal move

Martin Zubimendi injury record

Arsenal have had so many injuries this season.

Arteta claimed that one of the reasons why Arsenal are trophyless is the injury issues his side have suffered over the last few months.

Partey, thankfully, has stayed away from injuries this season, but the Ghana international has historically had several fitness issues at Arsenal.

Since joining Arsenal in 2020, Partey has missed a total of 81 games for club and country due to injury problems.

In the same period, Zubimendi has missed just 10 games. If he can maintain such a good injury record at Arsenal, the Gunners’ midfield will have no problems.