Arsenal win Martin Zubimendi transfer race with £51 million deal for Real Sociedad star 'nearly completed'

By: Shawn
Arsenal are set to sign long-term target Martin Zubimendi, beating Liverpool and Manchester City to the Real Sociedad player's signature.

According to The Daily Mail, Arsenal are in advanced discussions with Real Sociedad to sign star midfielder Martin Zubimendi, with the deal being 'nearly completed'. Arsenal had hoped to sign the Spaniard in January, but Real Sociedad is keen to keep him until the conclusion of the 2024-25 season.

'Martin Zubimendi.'
Getty Images Sport

Jorginho and Thomas Partey, two of Arsenal's current central midfielders, will depart the club at the conclusion of the current season when their contracts expire. As a result, the English team went all out to sign Zubimendi. The Spain international has a €60 million release clause (£51 million/$61.5 million) that Arsenal is willing to activate.

Liverpool and Manchester City were both interested in signing the Real Sociedad star. Despite receiving a refusal from Zubimendi in the summer, the Reds planned to pursue him again this month. City, on the other hand, had included the Spain international on their shortlist when Rodri damaged his ACL earlier this season.

After finalizing Zubimendi's move, Arteta will now seek to improve his assault. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus have been out with long-term injuries, and Kai Havertz has struggled to produce regularly. After two successive defeats in the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup, Arsenal will look to win again on Wednesday when they face local rivals Tottenham in the Premier League.

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