Arsenal have been heavily linked with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi for well over a year, but it now appears that they could end up signing him this summer.
Zubimendi turned down moves to Arsenal and Barcelona before, choosing to stay with his boyhood club, and he helped them not only qualify for the Champions League, but also helped them reach the knockout stages.
The 24-year-old has been outstanding in La Liga, and whilst it seemed unlikely that he would choose to depart despite Mikel Arteta’s interest in the player, this may have now changed.
Zubimendi has a £52m release clause in his contract, and could be the perfect option to complete Arteta’s ideal midfield trio alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.
Martin Zubimendi ‘close’ to agreeing Arsenal deal
A report relayed by The Mirror has now claimed that the Spaniard is “very close” to agreeing to join Arsenal in the summer window, and fellow interested party Barcelona have turned their attention elsewhere as a result.
It remains to be seen just how far along a potential deal is, but this is certainly a promising development, and those in Spain believe that the Basque-born star is set for a move to North London.
He has made 173 appearances for Real Sociedad since making his La Liga debut in the 2018-19 season, scoring eight and assisting seven times from a defensive midfield position, and has won both the UEFA Nations League with Spain, and the Copa Del Rey.
Why does Mikel Arteta want Martin Zubimendi at Arsenal?
Thomas Partey’s injury issues have been a huge problem this season, and the club may have finally lost patience, and may be prepared to sell him in the summer.
Zubimendi would be the perfect replacement for the 30-year-old, and Arsenal’s midfield would be ready for both next season and beyond.
He would be reuniting with his former teammate in Odegaard, and his presence at the base of midfield would allow Rice to push further forward.
Jorginho has impressed in recent appearances, with his intelligence and passing ability standing out despite his physical limitations. Zubimendi could add a similar level of composure on the ball, and dictate the play from the middle of the park, whilst also adding yet more strength to Arteta’s side.
Should Arsenal complete a deal, it would help replace the void left by Granit Xhaka, and perhaps lead to even better play in build-up in both attacking and defensive scenarios.
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