Arsenal Football Club have officially completed the signing of Spain international and Euro 2024 champion Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in a transfer deal reportedly worth around £55 million ($75 million). The 26-year-old defensive midfielder arrives at the Emirates on a five-year contract, becoming the Gunners’ second major signing of the summer transfer window.
Zubimendi, long admired by top European clubs including Liverpool and Real Madrid, described the move as a defining moment in his career.
“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 said.
The Athletic reported that Arsenal opted to pay slightly above Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause to spread the transfer fee over several instalments.
Having made 236 appearances for Real Sociedad and earned 19 caps for Spain, Zubimendi brings top-level experience and composure to Arsenal’s midfield. His arrival fills the gap left by the departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho, and allows manager Mikel Arteta more flexibility to push Declan Rice further up the pitch alongside Martin Ødegaard.
“Martin is a player who will bring a huge amount of quality and football intelligence to our team,” said Arteta. “He will fit in really well and has all the attributes to be a key player for us.”
Zubimendi is Arsenal’s second addition this window after goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga joined from Chelsea. The North London side is also reportedly closing in on a deal for Brentford midfielder Christian Nørgaard.
Last season, Arsenal narrowly missed out on silverware, finishing second in the Premier League for a third consecutive year and reaching the Champions League semi-finals. With another trophyless season behind them, the club is now focused on assembling a squad capable of breaking the title deadlock since their unbeaten 2003/04 campaign.
Attention has now turned to strengthening the attack, with long-term injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz exposing Arsenal’s lack of a natural striker. Reports suggest that a deal for Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyökeres is nearing completion, while Chelsea winger Noni Madueke is also said to be on the club’s radar.
