The transfer saga surrounding Martin Zubimendi has taken yet another dramatic twist, with Arsenal reportedly confident of sealing the deal despite whispers of a Real Madrid hijack. According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the Gunners view the signing as “done and signed,” putting to rest concerns stirred by recent reports from Spain.
It was back in May when transfer guru Fabrizio Romano dropped the bombshell, signaling a ‘here we go’ moment for Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal. Romano’s announcement sent shockwaves through the football world as the Real Sociedad midfielder appeared destined to become Arsenal’s first signing of the summer.
On May 10, Romano took to X to declare: “Arsenal agree deal to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, here we go! Zubimendi has now verbally agreed to sign a long-term deal… so formal steps must follow soon with Arsenal to trigger €60m clause. Zubi, ready to become the first signing of the new season.”
Yet, just as Arsenal fans began to celebrate, reports from Spain hinted at a potential plot twist. Real Madrid, the La Liga giants, were said to be lurking in the shadows, ready to swoop in and snatch Zubimendi from under Arsenal’s nose.
Spanish outlet Marca fueled the speculation earlier this week, stating that “concerns are starting to appear at the Emirates” as Real Madrid entered the fray. The report claimed that “the outlook has changed in recent hours with the appearance of Real Madrid on the scene,” leaving fans on edge.
However, Ornstein has firmly shut down these rumours, asserting that Arsenal regard the deal as final. In his piece for The Athletic, he revealed that Real Sociedad preferred the deal to be formalized in July for accounting reasons, and Zubimendi is expected to join Arsenal’s pre-season preparations. According to Ornstein, Real Madrid “like the player but did not pursue or actively work on recruiting him.”
The debate over Zubimendi’s potential impact at Arsenal continues to rage. Manchester United legend Paul Scholes expressed skepticism about the signing, questioning the midfielder’s ability to fill a void in Arsenal’s squad. Speaking on The Overlap, Scholes remarked, “What hole is Martin Zubimendi going to fill? I don’t see a hole there. I saw Zubimendi against United for Sociedad, and I wasn’t impressed.”
Contrasting sharply with Scholes’ view, Gary Neville, his former teammate, defended the move. Neville argued, “I genuinely don’t believe Rice or Partey are anywhere near as good at receiving the ball as some of the other midfielders in the Premier League. They need someone to control the ball and keep it moving.”
As the summer transfer window heats up, all eyes remain on Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi. Will the Gunners secure their man, or will Real Madrid stage a late intervention? Only time will tell.
Stay updated with the latest football news and betting opportunities: Explore the best football betting sites in India.
