As the summer transfer window heats up, Arsenal's pursuit of Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi faces unexpected turbulence, with Real Madrid launching a last-ditch effort to secure the midfielder's signature. The 26-year-old defensive midfielder, who has been a pivotal figure for both club and country, is at the center of a high-stakes tug-of-war that could reshape the midfield landscape for two European giants.
Zubimendi's journey has been marked by loyalty and impressive performances. Having joined Real Sociedad's youth ranks at just 12, he has blossomed into a seasoned professional, amassing over 200 first-team appearances across six seasons. His role in Spain's triumphant Euro 2024 campaign last summer further cemented his reputation as one of the continent's most promising midfield talents.
Arsenal, eager to bolster their midfield following the departure of Jorginho to Flamengo and the uncertain future of Thomas Partey, have been aggressively pursuing Zubimendi. Manager Mikel Arteta views the Spaniard as a crucial addition to maintain and enhance the Gunners’ midfield dynamism. Early in 2025, Arsenal reportedly agreed to trigger Zubimendi's €60 million (£51 million) release clause, with the player verbally committing to a long-term contract, as confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano in May. The Gunners’ offer is believed to include a lucrative salary package around £8 million per year, positioning Zubimendi as a marquee signing for the club's upcoming season.
However, Real Madrid, under new head coach Xabi Alonso, have not relented. Alonso, who previously coached Zubimendi at Real Sociedad B and is regarded by the midfielder as his "idol," has identified him as his top target to reinforce the Bernabeu's midfield. Spanish outlet AS reports that Madrid is preparing a "final offensive" to hijack the deal, convinced that no other defensive midfielder on the market matches Zubimendi's quality. This belief is bolstered by Zubimendi's own expressed preference to remain in La Liga, making the prospect of joining Madrid particularly enticing.
Despite Arsenal's readiness to meet the release clause, Real Madrid are reportedly unwilling to match the full €60 million fee outright. Instead, they plan to negotiate a lower transfer fee by offering Real Sociedad players on fee-free loans, possibly including talents from Real Madrid Castilla or even first-team squad members. This strategic move aims to reduce Sociedad’s financial demands while still securing Zubimendi’s services. However, the Spanish club’s president, Jokin Aperribay, has yet to indicate acceptance of such terms, leaving Madrid with a tough choice: pay the full release clause or risk losing out.
The wage offer is another sticking point. While Arsenal's package reportedly offers around £8 million annually, Real Madrid are not prepared to match this figure, meaning Zubimendi might have to accept a pay cut should he opt for the Bernabeu. This financial consideration adds complexity to the midfielder's decision, especially given his contract with Sociedad runs until 2027.
Adding to the intrigue, Zubimendi's own statements have kept the transfer saga alive. In an interview with Radio Nacional de España, he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future, saying, "Of course there are options, but it’s true that it seems like it’s going to be a different, long summer, and I don’t know how it will end." He emphasized his focus on current national team duties, describing the transfer speculation as a distraction. He also paid tribute to Alonso, stating, "I’ve always said that he was my idol and that for me it was a stroke of luck that he was able to coach me in the reserve team in a very important year." Yet, he refrained from discussing potential moves while with the national team, underscoring the respect he holds for the ongoing competition.
Real Madrid’s interest is not new. Last summer, Liverpool came close to signing Zubimendi, but the midfielder chose to remain with Sociedad, a decision that surprised many given the Reds’ stature. Now, with Real Madrid's renewed push, Arsenal must navigate a delicate situation to secure their man. The Spanish giants' willingness to launch a "final offensive" highlights the high stakes involved.
Meanwhile, Zubimendi's on-field performances continue to impress. On June 8, 2025, he opened the scoring in the UEFA Nations League final against Portugal in Munich, capitalizing on a defensive error to give Spain the lead. Although Portugal equalized shortly after, Zubimendi's goal served as a reminder of his quality and why top clubs are vying for his signature.
For Arsenal, the midfielder's arrival would address critical needs in the squad. The Gunners have been impacted by the departures of Jorginho and the impending free agency of Partey, whose contract expires at the end of June 2025. Zubimendi's ability to control the midfield from deep and his established chemistry with fellow Spaniard Mikel Merino—his teammate at Sociedad and Spain, with whom he has shared 167 matches since 2019—would provide Arsenal with a much-needed boost in stability and creativity.
Arsenal are also making strides in other areas, with the imminent signing of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea to back up David Raya, and ongoing interest in forwards like RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Sporting Lisbon's Viktor Gyokeres. The club is simultaneously working to secure new contracts for key players including Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Thomas Partey, and Leandro Trossard, signaling a comprehensive approach to squad strengthening.
As the transfer window progresses, the battle for Zubimendi's signature remains one of the most closely watched stories. Arsenal's confidence in securing the deal contrasts with Real Madrid's strategic maneuvers and the midfielder's own open stance. Whether the Gunners can hold off Madrid's "final offensive" or if Alonso's personal connection and the allure of La Liga sway Zubimendi, remains to be seen.
With no contract signed yet and the summer unfolding, the transfer saga is far from over. Fans of both clubs and neutrals alike will be watching closely as this captivating midfield chess match continues to develop.
