As the summer transfer window approaches, Arsenal is making significant strides in their pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who has emerged as a crucial target for the Gunners. Recent reports suggest that Arsenal’s interest in Zubimendi is not just a fleeting notion but rather a well-advanced negotiation, with the club reportedly informing Real Madrid that the deal is practically finalized. This news comes as Real Madrid has shifted its focus towards other midfield targets, such as Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister and Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Zubimendi’s agreement with Arsenal is now “taken for granted everywhere,” indicating a strong likelihood of his move to the Emirates Stadium this summer. The 26-year-old has been an instrumental figure for Real Sociedad this season, making 43 appearances and contributing two goals and two assists. His performances have also earned him six starts in Spain’s national team, where he played a vital role in their Euro 2024 triumph.
Arsenal has been closely monitoring Zubimendi since the summer of 2023, and manager Mikel Arteta is known to be a huge admirer of the midfielder. The Gunners’ sporting director, Andrea Berta, is also on board with the move, believing that Zubimendi would significantly bolster the team’s midfield options. The player himself reportedly prefers a move to Arsenal over any other club, despite interest from Real Madrid.
Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has commented on Zubimendi’s future, stating that a decision regarding his status will be made in June 2025. He emphasized the importance of Zubimendi focusing on helping the club qualify for European competition before making any decisions about his future. "We’ll see what happens. All I ask of him is one last effort to qualify for Europe and whatever happens, will happen in June," Aperribay said during an interview with Radio Marca.
The backdrop to this situation includes Zubimendi’s previous near-move to Liverpool last summer, where the Reds had agreed to pay his release clause. However, the midfielder opted to remain with Real Sociedad, a decision that has kept him at the center of transfer speculation as the current season draws to a close.
With Arsenal currently in the midst of a competitive Premier League campaign and eyeing a potential Champions League run, securing Zubimendi could prove pivotal in their quest for silverware. The Gunners have been linked with several other players as well, including a reported £55 million move for Barcelona defender Jules Kounde and an eye-watering bid for Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, who has netted an impressive 47 goals in 46 games this season.
As Arsenal prepares for their Champions League semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain, the team faces challenges with injuries, particularly to Jorginho, who is likely out for the remainder of the season due to a rib injury. Arteta has indicated that the team will need to adapt and may even look to youth players to fill the gaps in the squad.
In the midst of these developments, the Gunners are also contending with interest from other clubs for players like Antoine Semenyo, who has attracted attention from Liverpool and Manchester United. As the summer transfer window looms, Arsenal's management is keen to finalize their targets early, ensuring they can close the gap at the top of the Premier League.
While the future remains uncertain for Zubimendi, with Real Sociedad currently sitting 10th in La Liga and two points behind Osasuna for a spot in the Europa Conference League, his next move could significantly impact both his career and Arsenal’s ambitions for the upcoming season. Zubimendi's talent and potential fit into Arteta's vision for the club, making this transfer one to watch as the summer unfolds.
As the clock ticks down on the current season, Arsenal fans are left eagerly anticipating the club's next moves in the transfer market, hoping that Zubimendi will be one of the key signings that propels them back into contention for both domestic and European honors.
