Arsenal Secures Martin Zubimendi Amid Real Madrid Interest
In a summer already circling with speculation, Arsenal remained quietly confident that their pursuit of Real Sociedad’s midfield maestro, Martín Zubimendi, is closing in on a London move, regardless of whispers from Real Madrid. The Gunners are said to have triggered the €60 million ($51 million) release clause, and insiders insist the deal is “done and signed.” Meanwhile, La Liga giants Madrid are reportedly intrigued but have never seriously entered the discussions. Here’s how it all unfolded, and why Mikel Arteta’s side feels so secure.
Real Sociedad Walks a Deliberate Line
While Arsenal has activated the release clause, there has been no official announcement. Sources close to the situation explain that this isn’t a sign of hesitation; it’s simply a result of Real Sociedad’s preference. The club would rather finalize the paperwork in July, aligning with their end‑of‑year accounting strategy, without affecting Zubimendi’s availability for pre‑season arrangements.
Behind the scenes, reports from credible outlets such as The Athletic and Football365 highlight that Arsenal and Real Sociedad agreed long ago on the fee, and that, as journalist David Ornstein shared, Arsenal views the deal as “done and signed.” Additional confirmation comes from Sports Illustrated, reinforcing that Arsenal “beat Real Madrid in the race” and opted to structure a payment plan to suit Sociedad’s financial calendar.
Why Madrid Never Pulled the Trigger
Real Madrid’s name has repeatedly surfaced in this saga, primarily driven by the market. Indeed, Zubimendi and Xabi Alonso share a strong bond from when they were both featured at Real Sociedad’s B team, so interest makes sense. However, according to reliable reports, Madrid never actively launched a bid for the midfielder. Their admiration stayed on paper while Arsenal moved the operation forward in earnest.
Further, regional media like Marca and Managing Madrid suggested Real Madrid briefly hovered in the background, exploring whether a late entry could disrupt Arsenal’s momentum. However, they ultimately didn’t see the need to challenge a release clause already being hit. Sources close to El Larguero and Cadena Ser even label Arsenal’s exclusivity as a foregone conclusion.
What Zubimendi Brings To Arsenal
Currently 26, Zubimendi is viewed as one of Spain’s most complete defensive-midfield talents. Technically refined and strategically sound, qualities similar to both Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso, he combines sharp passing, composure under pressure, and the ability to dictate tempo. His rise through Real Sociedad’s academy, over 230 senior appearances, and recent Euro 2024 success reflects a player ready to elevate his game on a new stage.
At the Emirates, Zubimendi is expected to slot in behind Declan Rice, who steps forward into a more advanced box‑to‑box role. The departing Jorginho and the uncertain future of Thomas Partey open the door for a fresh midfield anchor. If Partey decides to sign an extension with Arsenal, it will give the Gunners quality depth in midfield, helping them fight for silverware and finally win one.
Arsenal’s midfield now has a strategic mix of energy and defensive solidity from Rice, creativity and ball retention from Zubimendi, and the chance to blend fluidly with midfield partners like Martin Odegaard or new signings yet to come.
What Could Still Change?
Though Arsenal and Real Sociedad have done the heavy lifting, the clubs are waiting until Sociedad’s fiscal window reopens in July. The goal is to bank the money in the new accounting period while ensuring Zubimendi is on the pitch for the preseason.
Various outlets, including The Sun and fan chatter, mention a medical is imminent, possibly in June or early July, before the formal unveiling. Unless Zubimendi himself surprisingly reopens negotiations, which seems improbable, the feeling inside Madrid is that they will seek other targets. Their midfield rebuild now leans in another direction, and Alonso’s preference seems to have shifted elsewhere.
Voices From Social Media
Reddit users in r/Gunners reflect this sentiment, often echoing Ornstein’s position: “Arsenal will pay a total of around €65 million (£55 m) for Martín Zubimendi… after agreeing with Real Sociedad to pay… in installments.”
Other fans awaited the medical to serve as final proof: “Not until I see him in a red & white shirt.” That blend of optimism and cautiousness reflects Arsenal’s fanbase, which is hopeful about a deal “done and signed” yet awaiting confirmation.
Final Thoughts
As things stand, only one more step remains: the medical and official unveiling. For Mikel Arteta and Arsenal, the midfield puzzle is taking shape. Zubimendi in front of Rice means a strong spine and a statement of intent. Once Arsenal completes this deal, they will look to sign a prolific striker. Benjamin Sesko has been linked with the Gunners for ages, and a deal could be worth it and imminent.
