Arsenal have finally announced the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, following months of work behind the scenes to secure the transfer.
The Gunners have been looking to strengthen their midfield core for the past year, following some big-money signings.
Declan Rice is the Arsenal club-record transfer signing, costing over £100 million to land from West Ham, bolstering the midfield ranks alongside Martin Odegaard, who have created a formidable partnership.
However, there have always been questions surrounding that third midfielder in Mikel Arteta’s system at the Emirates Stadium.
While the likes of Thomas Partey and Jorginho have played there in the past, the future is now for Arsenal, with Martin Zubimendi their newest addition to fulfil the role.
Arsenal announce Martin Zubimendi signing from Real Sociedad
Arsenal were first linked with Zubimendi back in January, having been rumoured with some interest in the months prior.
The Spaniard had been on the radar of the likes of Liverpool, Real Madrid and others, following a few impressive years for club and country.
While he has stayed loyal to Real Sociedad in recent transfer windows, the time has come for him to move on.
Arsenal have paid £51 million for Zubimendi, confirming his move from the Spanish outfit on a deal running until 2030.
The 26-year-old is likely to play as the deepest of the midfield trio, tasked with building the team up from the back.
Martin Zubimendi’s signing is just the start for Arsenal
With Zubimendi becoming the first signing of the summer for Arsenal, it’s time for Andrea Berta to build on it.
It’s a move that has been months in the works, but the reality is that the Gunners need him and much more in the market.
The forward ranks need improving in the weeks ahead, with a striker and a winger required to ensure the team can compete for trophies.
It means plenty more money to be spent and work to be done to get the transfer window complete.
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