Arsenal are finally set to make a huge transfer, with reports claiming that a deal for one midfielder is ready for the end of the season.
It comes as the Gunners have struggled to bolster their squad in recent weeks, with the January transfer window providing little comfort.
Injury issues have piled up for Mikel Arteta and his team have suffered bruising defeats in recent cup matches to leave the mood at a slight low.
Questions have stemmed over the Arsenal project and where to go next, not least with the lack of options across the squad.
While many have asked whether the manager has to move on, it seems as though the hierarchy are set to double down on backing Arteta.
Arsenal set to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in the summer
With pressure building on Arsenal and the need to win silverware, the owners have doubled down on their funding of the project.
That’s because, according to the Daily Mail, the Gunners are set to win the race to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
The report states that the Spaniard is in advanced talks over a switch, claiming a deal is “virtually completed” in the region of £51million – owing to his release clause being triggered.
Arsenal were linked with Zubimendi previously, with claims that he was a “dream target” for Arteta.
As a result, the news comes as a huge potential boost to the manager, despite the pressing need for a forward, as it may help transform his midfield.
Zubimendi was wanted by Liverpool and Manchester City, but picking Arsenal could help provide a double blow to their rivals as well.
It is the first of a few moves that could help the Gunners turn themselves from title challengers into serial winners.
Martin Zubimendi playing style for Arsenal
With Zubimendi seemingly set to join Arsenal, it’s a move that will help take the midfield ranks to the next level.
The 25-year-old is a master of receiving the ball from the backline in deep areas, progressing the ball further up the pitch.
It’s a dream option for Arteta to have at his disposal, with his lack of current options who can offer a similar role.
Declan Rice, while thought of as a number six, has often operated as a number eight, given his difficulties in receiving the ball on the turn.
Jorginho and Thomas Partey face similar struggles, while the pair are nearing the end of their contracts at the club.
Mikel Merino is likely to play further up on the left of the midfield, while Martin Odegaard is desired in the playmaker roles for his creative flair.
In Zubimendi, they finally have that orchestrator the side have been crying out for in build-up.
Next up on the list: A forward.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
