Arsenal Closing In on Zubimendi Deal to Anchor Midfield Rebuild

Arsenal are on the verge of securing a major addition to their midfield with the imminent arrival of Spanish international Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. The 26-year-old is expected to make the switch in a £51 million deal, finalising a move that has been widely anticipated since January.

Zubimendi, long regarded as one of the elite defensive midfielders in Europe, previously turned down a move to Liverpool but now looks set to join their Premier League rivals. His addition is expected to complete Mikel Arteta’s preferred midfield trio, operating alongside Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, with Thomas Partey likely to make way as his contract winds down.

What Zubimendi Brings to the Emirates

A one-club man so far, Zubimendi has made 236 appearances for Real Sociedad, though his modest return of 10 goals underlines his deeper role on the pitch. Typically deployed as a lone pivot in a 4-1-4-1 formation, he has developed a reputation for consistency, vision, and control.

Statistically, the 2024-25 La Liga campaign showcased his all-round game. Among central midfielders, he ranked in the top five for categories including pass completion, long passes, progressive distribution, tackles, interceptions, and aerial duels. He also led in distance covered with upfield passes — an average of 8.5km.

Spanish football expert Guillem Balagué praised his tactical intelligence:

“His passing may appear simple, but it’s about choosing the right option. He rarely loses the ball, which helps maintain rhythm and confidence. He’s not the quickest, but he reads the game like few others — it’s as if he has the whole picture in his head.”

While primarily a disruptor and link between defence and attack, Zubimendi has also shown a growing confidence driving forward, entering the box when necessary — provided teammates can offer cover.

Spain Experience and Tactical Fit at Arsenal

Internationally, Zubimendi has earned 19 caps and stepped up admirably in Rodri’s absence during Spain’s Euro 2024 final win over England. Despite Rodri’s stature and eventual Ballon d’Or triumph, Zubimendi’s second-half performance helped Spain maintain control and edge a 2-1 victory.

He continued to impress during the 2025 Nations League, scoring twice and ranking among the leaders in passing and defensive metrics. His rise prompted interest from Real Madrid, particularly due to shared roots with manager Xabi Alonso — both products of Antiguoko and Real Sociedad. However, Zubimendi appears set on joining Arsenal.

At the Emirates, he is expected to directly replace Partey, whose future remains uncertain. With Jorginho having exited the club, Zubimendi’s defensive focus and ability to cover ground could provide even more freedom for Rice to push forward. Compared to Partey, Zubimendi had more touches in his own half and fewer passes into the final third — underlining his role as a stabiliser rather than a creator.

As Arsenal continue to target a new striker this summer, Zubimendi’s arrival may offer the balance and depth Arteta needs to shape a squad capable of challenging on all fronts.