Official: Arsenal confirm £51m Martin Zubimendi transfer
Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi in a £51 million deal, marking their second addition of the summer transfer window.
The 26-year-old Spanish international joins the Gunners on a five-year contract and will wear the No. 36 shirt at the Emirates Stadium.
Zubimendi has long been a top target for manager Mikel Arteta, who sought a long-term solution in the defensive midfield role following the exits of Thomas Partey and Jorginho.
In his first comments as an Arsenal player, Zubimendi described the move as a “huge moment” in his career.
“I set my sights on Arsenal because their style of play is a good fit for me,” he said. “Andrea [Berta] and Mikel [Arteta] took excellent care of me, leaving me with no doubts whatsoever.”
The Spaniard will immediately join his new teammates for a warm-weather training camp in Spain before Arsenal’s pre-season tour to Singapore and Hong Kong later this month.
Viewed internally as a ‘Tier One’ signing, Zubimendi reportedly ticks all the boxes set by Arsenal’s recruitment hierarchy, including passing accuracy, tactical intelligence, leadership, and a strong injury record.
Arteta is expected to slot him into a midfield trio alongside Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard as the Gunners aim to mount another title challenge in the 2025/26 season.
Zubimendi’s signing follows the earlier arrival of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for £5 million.
