Martín Zubimendi Joins Arsenal: What the LaLiga Star Adds to the Gunners’ Midfield

Transfer Confirmed

Arsenal has finalized their second significant signing of the summer as they welcome Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. The talented midfielder, who also represents Spain, has joined the Gunners in a deal estimated at €65 million. This fee slightly exceeds the €60 million release clause in his contract, as part of an agreement with the La Liga club that allows for installment payments. The two clubs have built a strong rapport, following Arsenal’s acquisition of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad last summer. Zubimendi has signed a long-term deal, marking him as Arsenal’s second major addition, following goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

With the departure of midfielder Jorginho to Flamengo, there was an urgent need for midfield reinforcements. Zubimendi arrives in the Premier League with a stellar reputation, having very nearly signed for Liverpool last summer before opting to remain at his childhood club. Now, the Gunners have successfully lured him to North London, where he is expected to enhance Mikel Arteta’s squad. Our Spanish insiders provide insights on how Zubimendi will integrate into Arsenal and the potential contributions he might make at the Emirates.

What Can Martín Zubimendi Add to Arsenal?

According to Transfermarkt Content Manager Iván Fuente, “He is arguably the best central midfielder in La Liga.” This is a bold assertion given the impressive talent pool in Spain, including names like Pedri and Federico Valverde. Fuente elaborates, “Zubimendi is adept at controlling the game’s tempo. He is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure when starting from the back and excels in precise passing, effectively breaking lines to benefit his teammates.” Such qualities will be essential for Arsenal, facilitating ball progression to players like Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice.

Regarding areas for improvement, Fuente pointed out, “His primary weakness may be his height and physicality.” Nonetheless, Rice’s robust presence in midfield could complement Zubimendi perfectly. When asked about Zubimendi’s ability to adapt to the Premier League and Arsenal’s style of play, Fuente affirmed, “Absolutely. He’s exactly the type of player suited for a possession-based game. His precision in short passes is top-notch, always finding teammates in advantageous positions with the right weight on the ball. His skill in one-on-one duels is also noteworthy—he plays aggressively and isn’t hesitant to press or reclaim possession.”

Zubimendi emerged from Real Sociedad’s youth system, featuring in 236 matches for the club, where he scored 10 goals and provided nine assists. Internationally, he has earned 19 caps for Spain, netting twice, most recently in the Nations League final against Portugal. With a current market value of €60 million, Fuente believes this will rise significantly now that he’s joined a top team, declaring, “This signing is a tremendous value for Arsenal.” Furthermore, he drew comparisons of Zubimendi to Spanish legends like Xabi Alonso, Sergio Busquets, and Rodri.

These are considerable expectations for Zubimendi, but he is likely to help address Arsenal’s concerns over an aging midfield, particularly in the defensive midfield role. The Gunners are also on the lookout for a striker and a winger this summer, with targets like Viktor Gyökeres and Benjamin Sesko in the former category and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo in the latter. While much of the focus has been on forward acquisitions, Zubimendi’s arrival could prove to be a pivotal signing for Arsenal’s midfield, making him the second most expensive midfielder in the club’s history.