Arsenal are set to make a £51 million bid for 25-year-old Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, aiming to secure his signature at the end of this season.
Zubimendi has long been a target for the Gunners, who are prepared to trigger his release clause.
The move would be a major boost for Arsenal, especially after the player turned down a transfer to Liverpool last summer.
Liverpool had pursued him as their top midfield target, but Zubimendi opted to remain in Spain.
Manchester City also showed interest following Rodri’s injury, but Zubimendi is reportedly reluctant to be a backup once Rodri returns.
Arsenal’s history with Real Sociedad could play a key role in this transfer.
Mikel Arteta has strong ties to the club, having played there himself.
The Gunners previously signed midfielder Mikel Merino from Sociedad and enjoyed a loan deal that saw Kieran Tierney join the Basque club for a year.
Zubimendi shares a common background with Arteta, having started his youth career at Antiguoko, the same team that nurtured the Arsenal manager.
With Thomas Partey and Jorginho both set to leave when their contracts expire this summer, Arsenal is keen to strengthen their midfield options.
Zubimendi could offer vital depth, particularly as Declan Rice has been playing a more advanced role.
If the move goes through, Arsenal will have three former Sociedad midfielders in their squad, with club captain Martin Ødegaard also having spent the 2019/20 season on loan at the Spanish club.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
