“Here we Go!” – Fabrizio Romano Confirms Arsenal’s First Summer Signing | OneFootball

Arsenal Close in on Midfield Reinforcement as Zubimendi Deal Nears Completio

Arsenal have taken a major step toward bolstering their midfield by reaching a verbal agreement to sign Real Sociedad stalwart Martin Zubimendi. As per the ever-reliable Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners are preparing to activate the Spanish international’s €60 million release clause, securing a player Mikel Arteta has admired for several seasons.

“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,” Romano reported via X.

This development marks a strong signal of intent from the north London club as they seek to maintain momentum after reaching the Champions League semi-finals in 2024.

Zubimendi’s Profile: What Arsenal Are Getting

At 26, Zubimendi brings maturity, elite experience, and a calmness in midfield that Arteta values immensely. A product of Real Sociedad’s youth system, the midfielder has made over 230 appearances for the club. In the 2024/25 season alone, he featured 44 times, registering two goals and two assists.

Yet his contribution is more about control and positional intelligence than raw statistics. Known for his defensive stability and efficient ball progression, he serves as a true metronome in the middle of the park. His style is often compared to that of Sergio Busquets — a compliment not lightly given.

The plaudits don’t stop there. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente labelled Zubimendi as the “second-best player in the world”, a bold endorsement that underscores the esteem he’s held in within national team circles.

Arsenal’s Midfield Evolution

It’s no secret that Arsenal have sought to reinforce their central areas. With Granit Xhaka long gone and Thomas Partey’s injury record remaining a concern, there’s a clear need for reliable, high-calibre options in midfield. Declan Rice has been a revelation since his arrival, and Zubimendi’s deep-lying presence could allow Rice to venture further forward in certain systems.

Under Arteta, the Gunners are tactically fluid, often shifting shapes in and out of possession. Zubimendi’s intelligence and positional discipline make him an ideal candidate to anchor the base of midfield, allowing more creative players the freedom to flourish.

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Importantly, this isn’t a signing made out of desperation but one born from strategic foresight. Arsenal have scouted the Spaniard for several windows, and the timing — fresh off a Champions League run — couldn’t be better.

Competition and Conviction

The move is all the more significant considering Arsenal were not alone in their pursuit. Liverpool had long admired Zubimendi, with both Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot expressing interest at various points. That Arsenal have convinced the midfielder to choose them instead speaks volumes about the club’s project and trajectory.

Born and raised in San Sebastian, Zubimendi’s decision to leave his boyhood club after years of loyalty suggests this is a move he believes in deeply. Arteta’s vision, the allure of Premier League football, and the opportunity to compete at the highest level seem to have tipped the scales.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As an Arsenal supporter, this news feels like another cornerstone moment in the club’s resurgence under Mikel Arteta. Zubimendi isn’t just any signing — he’s a statement.

To land a player with over 230 top-flight appearances and international pedigree, especially one who’s so tactically astute, is nothing short of thrilling. What excites most fans is the balance this move brings: Zubimendi is the kind of midfielder who makes everyone else better. He reads danger, recycles possession, and executes the basics with elite consistency.

While many fans dream of flashy names, true football lovers know that titles are won by those who control the centre of the pitch. This is a midfield general who can command games quietly but effectively, and having him behind someone like Declan Rice or Martin Ødegaard is a dream scenario.

At €60m, the price isn’t cheap — but in today’s market, it feels like shrewd business for a player entering his peak. It also shows that Arsenal are no longer a stepping stone or rebuilding side; they’re now a destination.

If this deal is finalised — as Fabrizio Romano confidently indicates — fans should feel immense optimism heading into the new campaign. Zubimendi may not generate headlines like a striker or winger, but he might just be the missing piece in Arsenal’s title puzzle.