Arsenal Finalize Zubimendi Deal as Midfield Reinforcements Take Shape
Arsenal’s midfield overhaul is in full swing, with the highly anticipated signing of Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi now on the brink of completion. The Gunners have reportedly agreed to a £55 million deal for the Spanish international, who is currently in London to finalize the move. Despite whispers of Real Madrid’s interest, sources confirm that Arsenal have had this deal in their sights since January, with Madrid never making a formal offer.
Midfield Exodus and Arsenal’s Next Targets
With Jorginho already departing for Flamengo and Thomas Partey’s exit imminent, Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his midfield options. Contract talks with Partey have reportedly collapsed, as the Ghanaian midfielder seeks a pay rise that Arsenal are unwilling to grant. ESPN confirms that Partey will leave the club when his contract expires on June 30, leaving a significant void in the Gunners’ engine room.
Arsenal’s scouting team is already hard at work identifying replacements. Reports suggest that the North London club has made enquiries about PSG’s Warren Zaire-Emery, while Sevilla’s Lucien Agoume, Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, and Atletico Madrid’s Pablo Barrios are also on their radar. Rosenborg’s Sverre Nypan was previously a target, but the Norwegian wonderkid is now expected to join Manchester City.
Zubimendi Deal: The Final Details
Graeme Bailey of The Boot Room reveals that Zubimendi’s transfer to Arsenal has been finalized in the last 48 hours. While Real Sociedad initially demanded a fee above the player’s release clause, the two clubs have reached an agreement, with Arsenal paying slightly more in instalments. Zubimendi’s personal terms were already in place, and the move could officially be announced as early as this weekend.
Bailey also dismissed rumors linking Zubimendi to Real Madrid, calling it “mischief from the Madrid press.” The player reportedly committed to Arsenal months ago, with his decision unaffected by Xabi Alonso’s potential managerial appointment at Real.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
With Zubimendi’s arrival all but confirmed, Arsenal’s focus now shifts to securing another midfielder to replace Partey. The club’s proactive approach in the transfer market highlights their ambition to compete at the highest level next season. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see who joins the ranks at the Emirates in the coming weeks.
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