BREAKING NEWS: Mikel Arteta is set to secure Martín Zubimendi as Arsenal’s first signing ahead of the 2025/26 season, marking a significant move in the club’s ambition to strengthen its midfield.
The Real Sociedad star has long been on Arteta’s radar, admired for his intelligence, composure, and exceptional ability to dictate the tempo of a game from deep. With Thomas Partey’s future uncertain and Jorginho nearing the end of his contract, Arsenal’s need for a long-term holding midfielder became increasingly clear—and Zubimendi fits the profile perfectly.
The 26-year-old Spaniard has built a reputation in La Liga as one of the most technically gifted defensive midfielders, combining excellent positional awareness with crisp passing and calm under pressure. Arteta, who has been looking to evolve Arsenal into a more possession-dominant and tactically fluid side, views Zubimendi as a cornerstone for that transformation.
Reports suggest that Arsenal are ready to trigger his €60 million release clause to avoid a drawn-out negotiation. The deal is expected to be finalized early in the summer window, giving Zubimendi time to settle before pre-season. His arrival is seen not only as a strategic addition but also as a statement of intent, as Arsenal continue to close the gap on Manchester City and reestablish themselves as perennial Premier League contenders.
Zubimendi’s understanding of positional play, honed under Imanol Alguacil at Real Sociedad, aligns well with Arteta’s tactical philosophy. He’s expected to slot in seamlessly, offering greater control in midfield and unlocking more freedom for the likes of Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard to impact the final third.
With this signing, Arteta is not just filling a gap—he’s reinforcing Arsenal’s identity. Zubimendi could prove to be a transformative figure in the club’s quest for silverware next season.
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