Arsenal Sign Zubimendi in €60m Deal

Arsenal have officially announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, securing one of Europe's most sought-after talents.

The North London club activated Zubimendi's €60 million ($67m) release clause, outbidding several top European teams for his signature. The 26-year-old's contract with Sociedad was set to run until June 2027.

Sources reveal that Real Madrid attempted to sign the midfielder when Xabi Alonso took over as manager in May, but Arsenal had already finalized the deal in March.

Zubimendi previously turned down a move to the Premier League last summer when Liverpool identified him as their top defensive midfield target. He chose to remain at Sociedad for the 2024-25 season, a decision he later described as "the right one."

As a product of Sociedad's youth academy, Zubimendi made over 170 appearances for the first team during his five-year stint, establishing himself as a key player.

The San Sebastián native attracted significant interest this summer following standout performances in LaLiga and with Spain at Euro 2024. He notably replaced the injured Rodri at halftime in the final against England, excelling in the defensive midfield role as Spain secured a 2-1 victory.

Manchester City also monitored Zubimendi after Rodri suffered a serious knee injury in September.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reportedly played a pivotal role in convincing Zubimendi to join the club. The midfielder will reunite with former Sociedad teammate Mikel Merino, who joined Arsenal last summer.