Arsenal are acting with real intent early in the transfer window, with David Ornstein reporting that the club are behaving as if Martin Zubimendi is already a done deal. Mikel Arteta has long admired the Real Sociedad midfielder, and it seems the Gunners are determined to wrap up his signing quickly to shift their focus to other areas of the squad.
Zubimendi would effectively replace Jorginho, who is expected to move on this summer after a solid spell in North London. However, Arsenal reportedly want to keep Thomas Partey at the club too. The Ghanaian midfielder, when fit (something he’s managed this season), remains a key asset, and if Zubimendi is added to the ranks, Partey’s minutes could simply be managed more carefully next season. This approach would ensure Arsenal have top-level depth at the base of midfield without needing further investment in that position.
Securing Zubimendi early would free Arsenal to prioritise other key targets, with fresharsenal.com sources suggesting the club will turn attention to attacking reinforcements and a versatile defender once the midfield is settled. By moving decisively for the Spanish international, Arsenal are reducing the risk of being dragged into prolonged transfer sagas that could derail pre-season planning, a tactic that has proven successful for top clubs across Europe.
Zubimendi, who has been praised for his tactical intelligence and composure under pressure, fits the profile Arteta wants to add to the squad. His arrival would strengthen Arsenal’s spine significantly, giving them more control in games — a key factor if they are to compete across four competitions again next season, as discussed in The Athletic’s breakdown of Arsenal’s future squad needs.
If Arsenal complete the signing of Zubimendi and retain Partey, their defensive midfield could be considered ‘complete,’ allowing Edu and Arteta to be more aggressive in bolstering the squad elsewhere.
Arsenal are expected to spend significantly this summer as they aim to add at least two more forward players and another defender.
or all the latest Arsenal transfers and updates, be sure to check out Fresh Arsenal’s transfer news section, and you can read more about why Zubimendi is such a highly rated prospect here.