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Martin Zubimendi has officially become an Arsenal player, as the North London club confirmed the signing of the Spanish midfielder in a £60 million transfer from Real Sociedad.

Arsenal made the announcement following weeks of speculation linking the 26-year-old to a move to the Emirates Stadium. This signing marks Mikel Arteta’s second addition of the summer transfer window, further strengthening the squad ahead of the new Premier League season.

According to reports, Zubimendi’s move was nearly finalised before the end of the last campaign, with all parties reaching an agreement in principle. The final paperwork has now been completed, and the midfielder has signed a five-year contract with the Gunners. The deal, valued at around £60 million as per the BBC, underscores Arsenal’s determination to secure one of their long-term targets.

Zubimendi has been on Arteta’s radar for some time, and completing this move will allow Arsenal to shift their focus toward reinforcing other key areas. The Spaniard rose through Real Sociedad’s youth system, playing for their C and B teams before making 236 senior appearances. Over the years, he established himself as one of La Liga’s most reliable holding midfielders. Zubimendi also lifted the Euro 2024 trophy with Spain, coming on as a substitute in the final to replace the injured Rodri.

As per the BBC, Arsenal decided to pay more than his £51 million release clause so that they could spread the payments over time. Under La Liga regulations, a release clause must be settled in one lump sum. There were concerns that Real Madrid might attempt to hijack the deal following Xabi Alonso’s appointment—given Alonso’s past connection with Zubimendi from their time at Sociedad’s academy—but Arsenal successfully fended off that interest to complete the signing.

Speaking after the move, Zubimendi expressed his excitement: “This is a huge moment in my career. It’s the move I’ve been hoping for and one I really wanted to make. Once you step inside this club, you immediately understand its size and ambition. I chose Arsenal because their style of football suits me well. They’ve shown their potential recently, and I believe the best is still to come.”

The midfielder is expected to take over the deep-lying midfield role previously occupied by Thomas Partey, who has been released by the club. Zubimendi could make his first appearance during Arsenal’s pre-season tour of Asia later this month. Meanwhile, Arteta and the recruitment team are now turning their attention to attacking reinforcements, with Brentford captain Christian Norgaard reportedly close to sealing a £10 million move to the Emirates.

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