Arsenal have completed the signing of Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in a deal reportedly worth £55 million.
Zubimendi, who helped Spain win Euro 2024, had attracted interest from Liverpool and was also linked with Real Madrid before choosing Arsenal. He signed a five-year contract and becomes the Gunners’ second summer signing after goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga joined from Chelsea.
Speaking on Sunday, Zubimendi said, “This is a huge moment in my career. It’s the move I was looking for and one I wanted to make. As soon as you set foot here, you realise how big this club and this team are.”
He added, “I set my sights on Arsenal because their style of play is a good fit for me. They have shown their potential recently and the best is yet to come.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the 26-year-old, saying, “Martin is a player who will bring a huge amount of quality and football intelligence to our team. He will fit in really well and he has all the attributes to be a key player for us.”
Zubimendi made 236 appearances for Real Sociedad and has played 19 times for the Spanish national team. His arrival at the Emirates is expected to give Arteta more flexibility in midfield, especially after the exits of Thomas Partey and Jorginho.
Reports say Arsenal paid more than Zubimendi’s 60 million euro release clause so the fee could be spread in installments.
His signing is likely to allow Declan Rice move further up the pitch to play in a more attacking role alongside club captain Martin Odegaard.
Arsenal, who finished second in the Premier League last season and reached the Champions League semi-finals, are still chasing more signings. Reports say they are close to sealing a move for Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres and are also linked with Chelsea’s Noni Madueke.
