Arsenal have signed Martin Zubimendi – here’s the story behind the move:
🔴 Player was aware of #AFC interest when he rejected Liverpool last year
🔴 Mikel Arteta driving force behind pursuit
🔴 Real Madrid source called rumours of late #RMFC interest ‘a lie as big as a castle’… pic.twitter.com/JDd01cSp6U— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) July 6, 2025
Martin Zubimendi has officially joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad on a five-year deal worth approximately €65 million. The fee exceeds his €60 million release clause but will be paid in installments, easing financial pressure on Arsenal. “Despite the release clause, the two clubs collaborated to find an agreement which suited all parties,” The Athletic reported. Mikel Arteta, who long admired the 26-year-old midfielder, made him a top target with Jorginho and Thomas Partey nearing contract expiry.
Real Sociedad previously resisted approaches, including from Liverpool, but talks with Arsenal began last year and concluded in March 2025. Zubimendi’s close ties to the Basque club and Real Sociedad’s cooperation helped smooth the process. Arsenal value his tactical intelligence, passing, and consistency. Arteta envisions him as a deep-lying No 6, allowing Declan Rice to play further forward. Zubimendi, who is already in London, is expected to slot seamlessly into Arsenal’s midfield ahead of the 2025-26 season.