Zubimendi is set to officially join Mikel Arteta’s side in June, with a formal announcement expected soon after the campaign wraps up.
Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. The Spanish international has reportedly agreed personal terms with the North London club. Arsenal are prepared to trigger his €60 million release clause, making him the first signing of the summer window. Arsenal have been intent on adding a more progressive profile to their midfield and the Euro 2024 winner fits that profile perfectly.
Zubimendi, 26, has informed Real Sociedad of his intention to depart once the current season concludes. He is set to officially join Mikel Arteta’s side in June, with a formal announcement expected soon after the campaign wraps up. The deal is viewed as a significant step in reshaping Arsenal’s midfield, with Zubimendi identified as the long-term replacement for Jorginho, who is set to join Brazilian side Flamengo on a three-year contract after his deal expires in July.
Zubimendi has long been admired for his tactical intelligence and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. The Real Sociedad midfielder has made 44 appearances across all competitions this season, contributing two goals. His performances have continued to impress across La Liga and European competitions.
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Real Madrid were also in the race to sign Martin Zubimendi, with new manager Xabi Alonso reportedly identifying the Real Sociedad midfielder as a key target for his tactical overhaul at the Santiago Bernabeu. Alonso had reportedly earmarked both Zubimendi and Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz as priority additions for the 2025/26 season. However, Real Madrid ultimately opted against triggering the €60 million release clause required to secure the 26-year-old’s services, which paved the way for Arsenal to act decisively and secure Zubimendi’s signature.
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This transfer also marks the beginning of a new era for Arsenal under recently appointed sporting director Andrea Berta. However, much of the groundwork for the Zubimendi deal was laid by Berta’s predecessors – Edu Gaspar and Jason Ayto. The duo was instrumental in identifying and progressing the move well before Berta’s arrival.
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