Zubimendi Joins Arsenal in €65M Swoop as Gunners Land Midfield Maestro

Arsenal have officially secured the signing of Spanish defensive midfielder Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad on a long-term contract, confirming a €65 million transfer fee agreed since May. The 26-year-old Basque midfielder will wear Arsenal’s number 36 shirt, a number he previously wore during his early years at La Real.

A product of Real Sociedad’s youth academy since 2011, Zubimendi climbed through the ranks to make his first-team debut in 2019. Over six seasons, he amassed over 230 appearances—scoring 10 goals and providing nine assists—and was instrumental in Sociedad’s Copa del Rey triumph, as well as their consistent qualification for European competitions.

Internationally, Zubimendi has earned 19 caps for Spain and contributed to their UEFA European Championship triumph in 2024, also featuring in the recent Nations League final.

Manager Mikel Arteta, who has pursued the midfielder for well over a year, praised Zubimendi’s intelligence, passing range, and defensive acumen, describing him as a “huge addition” who fits perfectly with Arsenal’s style of building from midfield.

Though established Serie A giants and Premier League suitors such as Liverpool had shown interest in Zubimendi, he ultimately opted for Arsenal, citing the club’s progressive football philosophy and long-term ambitions.

The transfer—payable in structured installments—follows Arsenal’s earlier capture of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, strengthening the squad with their second major summer acquisition.

As the Gunners commence their pre-season preparations, anticipation builds around how Zubimendi will integrate alongside midfield counterparts Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, and fellow Spaniard Mikel Merino. His addition provides Mikel Arteta with both depth and tactical flexibility heading into the new Premier League campaign.