Arsenal have set their sights on Real Sociedad defensive midfielder Martín Zubimendi as a summer transfer target.
According to reports, Zubimendi has been on Arsenal's radar since last year. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the midfielder has verbally agreed to sign a long-term deal with the Gunners.
Arsenal are set to trigger his €60 million release clause. Zubimendi played a major role in Real Sociedad’s 2020–2021 Copa del Rey title win. He also made significant contributions to Spain’s victory in the 2022–2023 UEFA Nations League and the 2023–2024 UEFA European Championship. The player has also made significant contributions to Real Sociedad this laa Liga season.His performances have attracted the attention of many top clubs including Liverpool and Real Madrid, but the 26-year-old has now reached an agreement with Arsenal.
With Jorginho set to leave at the end of the season, Mikel Arteta's side sees Zubimendi as the ideal replacement for the 33-year-old midfielder. Additionally, Zubimendi could serve as a potential replacement for—or even displace—Thomas Partey from the starting XI. Despite reports that Arsenal have offered Partey a new contract, the midfielder—who has faced criticism from some sections of Arsenal fans—might decide to leave at the end of the season.Partey has faced some injury crises in Arsenal. Also, his inconsistent performances and occasional poor decision-making have also led to backlash. One notable instance was when he picked up an avoidable yellow card in Arsenal’s second-leg quarter-final win against Real Madrid, leading to his suspension for the first leg of the semi-finals against PSG.
In a team already riddled with injuries, Partey’s suspension left them effectively a man down—despite being eleven on the pitch.
In fact, as it stands, Partey might already have one foot out the door at Arsenal. However, whether Partey stays or not, Zubimendi’s signing could mark the beginning of a potential squad rebuild by the Gunners—perhaps a step towards overcoming their "near-success syndrome" and finally winning silverware.
Zubimendi’s arrival could be a game-changer in Arsenal’s midfield as they prepare for the next season.
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