Martin Zubimendi to Arsenal latest as midfielder breaks silence on summer move
Arsenal are gearing up for a busy summer transfer window as they prepare for their return to the Champions League under the guidance of manager Mikel Arteta.
They are hoping to strengthen their squad with new signings, and may have an advantage in attracting top talent if they win the Premier League title. The Gunners have been linked with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi and West Ham captain Declan Rice, with reports suggesting that Arsenal have a genuine interest in Zubimendi despite Sociedad’s reluctance to let him go.
Zubimendi’s current contract reportedly includes a release clause of £53 million.
Having stated that, Arsenalbrief.football examines the most recent speculations and accounts related to Zubimendi’s potential transfer to Arsenal.
Martin Zubimendi responds to Arsenal links
In a recent interview, Martin Zubimendi has rejected the rumors about his potential transfer to Arsenal this summer. He reaffirmed his loyalty to Sociedad and dismissed any suggestions of a move to the Premier League.
“I have never planned to leave Real Sociedad — I always say that,” Zubimendi told Marca.
“I love life here, at home, I’m so happy here. The value of this club are same as mine so I feel very good, I always said that I’m happy.”
Deal ‘close’
Spanish media outlet Diario AS reports that Arsenal have been authorized to secure the signing of Zubimendi before Barcelona this summer. According to the report, Barcelona has abandoned their pursuit of the talented midfielder and has set their sights on Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat, who performed exceptionally well in the 2022 World Cup with Morocco.
The report indicates that a move to Arsenal is more probable for Zubimendi as he is said to be “very close” to agreeing to a deal with the Gunners and playing under Arteta.
Player’s stance
Zubimendi acknowledged that he had no intention of leaving Sociedad during the January transfer window. In an interview with Spanish publication Sport in March, he stated:
“Rumours, rumours, because I told my manager that I didn’t want to hear anything, especially in winter.
“Leaving Real Sociedad aside with the season we are having would be illogical. Here I am very happy.”
Interest confirmed
According to football.london, there is authentic interest from Arsenal in Zubimendi, but Sociedad was resolute that he would not depart from the Reale Arena in the January transfer window.
Zubimendi is 24 years old and is believed to have a £53 million release clause in his existing contract with the La Liga club.
Martin Zubimendi to Arsenal latest as midfielder breaks silence on summer move