Arsenal on verge of signing rising Spanish sensation

Arsenal is on the verge of finalizing a long-awaited transfer for Martin Zubimendi, successfully outmanoeuvring rivals Liverpool and Manchester City for the talented Real Sociedad midfielder.

As per the reports of the sources, the Gunners are currently in advanced discussions with Real Sociedad, and a deal appears to be near completion. Ideally, Arsenal had hoped to bring Zubimendi on board in January; however, Real Sociedad is committed to keeping him until the end of the 2024-25 season.

The Gunners are preparing for some major changes in their central midfield as Jorginho and Thomas Partey are set to depart the club at the end of the current season when their contracts expire. In light of this, the English side is making a strong push to secure the signing of Zubimendi. The Spain international has a release clause of €60 million, which Arsenal is poised to activate.

Liverpool and Manchester City were both pursuing the talented Real Sociedad star. After receiving a rejection from Zubimendi last summer, Liverpool is set to renew their interest in him this month. Meanwhile, Manchester City has added the Spain international to their shortlist following Rodri's unfortunate ACL injury earlier in the season, in an attempt to strengthen the squad for the season.

Update from Fabrizio Romano

Famous football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano took to his X to provide more information about the transfer. 

"Mikel Arteta, crucial factor for Arsenal to advance on Martin Zubimendi deal. Arsenal manager is part of the process for the club to get the green light from Zubi, the same as happened with Declan Rice two years ago. Zubimendi, in advanced talks with Arsenal for July 2025." he wrote.

With Zubimendi's transfer now secured, Arteta is primed to bolster his attacking options. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus are both out with long-term injuries, and Kai Havertz has yet to deliver the results expected of him. Following disappointing exits in the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup, Arsenal is determined to return to winning form on Wednesday as they face rivals Tottenham in the Premier League.