Martin Zubimendi Makes Final Decision on Arsenal & Real Madrid Transfer

Arsenal Close in on Long-Term Target as Zubimendi Chooses London Over Madrid

The Martin Zubimendi transfer saga appears to be nearing its conclusion, and for Arsenal fans, the signs couldn’t be more promising. The Real Sociedad midfielder, long admired across Europe for his poise, vision, and disciplined presence in the middle of the park, has reportedly decided that his next destination will be North London. Despite Real Madrid’s long-standing interest and a brief resurgence in their pursuit earlier this year, Zubimendi has made it clear: he wants to wear red and white next season.

According to reports from Spain, particularly from reputable journalist Eduardo Burgos, the 26-year-old Spain international is on the verge of finalising his move to Arsenal. The Gunners, under the stewardship of Mikel Arteta, have been courting Zubimendi for multiple transfer windows, and it looks like their persistence is finally about to pay off.

Zubimendi: The Jewel of San Sebastián

Zubimendi has been the heartbeat of Real Sociedad for several years now. Having come through the academy ranks at the Basque club, he embodies the spirit and style of La Real – composed in possession, tactically astute, and incredibly disciplined. It’s no surprise that some of Europe’s biggest clubs have kept tabs on him.

His performances didn’t just capture attention in La Liga either. During the summer of 2024, Zubimendi played a pivotal role for Spain in their victorious Euro 2024 campaign. Stepping in for Rodri in the final against England, he showed nerves of steel and a command of the midfield that only added to his growing reputation as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.

It’s not just his talent that’s appealing to suitors either – it’s the price tag. Zubimendi’s contract contains a €60 million (£51m) release clause, a relatively modest figure considering today’s inflated market. That release clause has made him one of the most talked-about transfer targets of the year.

Why Arsenal, Why Now?

Zubimendi’s name has been floating around Arsenal circles since early 2023. However, when Liverpool tried to activate his release clause last summer, he turned them down. At the time, he cited his “personal progression” and loyalty to Real Sociedad as reasons he wasn’t ready to make the jump.

That situation has now changed. With La Real’s season coming to a natural conclusion and no pressing obligations in European competition, Zubimendi feels the timing is finally right. He wants a new challenge and a new environment, and London seems to be calling.

Arsenal, having come agonisingly close to Premier League glory for three consecutive seasons, are desperate to make the next leap. Mikel Arteta has reportedly been a key figure in convincing Zubimendi of the project’s potential. The Spaniard’s desire to build a long-term winning culture, based on technical quality and tactical intelligence, aligns closely with Zubimendi’s footballing philosophy.

Sources close to the club say that Arsenal are “confident” that the deal is nearly done, and Zubimendi will become their first signing of the summer transfer window.

Real Madrid’s Late Push Falls Short

While Arsenal seem to be closing in, it would be unfair to ignore Real Madrid’s interest. Los Blancos have tracked Zubimendi closely, particularly as they look for long-term successors to veterans like Luka Modric and Toni Kroos.

Madrid ramped up their interest earlier this year, particularly when rumours surfaced about Xabi Alonso potentially taking over the managerial reins at the Bernabéu. Alonso, a fellow Basque and a former Sociedad man himself, was seen as a potential game-changer in convincing Zubimendi to head to the Spanish capital.

However, even the allure of Madrid’s prestige and the possibility of working with Alonso couldn’t sway Zubimendi. The midfielder is said to be keen on experiencing life in the Premier League, and the chance to work under Arteta, a fellow Spaniard known for nurturing talent and creating a possession-based, high-pressing style, was simply too tempting to pass up.

Tactical Fit at Arsenal

From a tactical standpoint, Zubimendi makes perfect sense for Arsenal. With Thomas Partey increasingly plagued by injuries and Jorginho not getting any younger, the Gunners need a dependable presence in the heart of midfield. Declan Rice has been phenomenal, but he can’t do it all alone.

Zubimendi brings balance. He’s not a headline-grabber, but he does the dirty work with elegance – breaking up play, covering ground, and starting attacks from deep. His passing range is exceptional, and his ability to read the game makes him an ideal pivot in a double midfield base.

Arteta’s tactical system often requires high football IQ and the ability to operate in tight spaces under pressure. Zubimendi checks all those boxes. His calmness under pressure and positional awareness will help Arsenal transition more smoothly from defence to attack.

What This Means for Real Sociedad

Real Sociedad are about to lose a cornerstone of their team, and it’s not an easy pill to swallow. Zubimendi isn’t just a product of their academy – he’s their captain-in-waiting, their leader in midfield, and a role model for younger players coming through.

However, Sociedad are well-run and have anticipated this eventual departure. The club will reinvest the €60m wisely, but it’s unlikely they’ll find a like-for-like replacement easily. His departure will mark the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter in San Sebastián.

The Bigger Picture for Arsenal

Assuming the deal gets over the line, Zubimendi’s arrival will be a major statement of intent for Arsenal. He’s a player with Champions League pedigree, international experience, and the kind of mentality that Mikel Arteta values.

Arsenal have been on the verge of greatness for several seasons now. Bringing in a player like Zubimendi could be the piece they’ve been missing. It signals that the Gunners are not just here to challenge – they’re here to win.

For fans, it’s a moment to get excited. For rivals, it’s a warning. Arsenal mean business, and Martin Zubimendi could be the man to help take them over the top.

The countdown has begun. And if everything goes to plan, Martin Zubimendi will be pulling on the red and white of Arsenal very soon.