𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement to sign a ‘world-class’ 26-year-old star following ‘months’ of negotiations — according to a new report.

Arsenal has reportedly finalized an agreement to secure the services of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, bringing an end to months of ongoing discussions, according to a report by The Athletic.

The North London side is actively working to strengthen multiple areas of their squad during the summer transfer window, with a major striker signing remaining their top priority. However, attention has also been given to reinforcing the midfield, and Zubimendi has long been a name linked with the club.

After extended negotiations, Arsenal has now reached a deal to bring in the highly-rated 26-year-old Spaniard. The Gunners will pay £55 million for the midfielder — a fee that exceeds his £51 million release clause — but the structure of the agreement reportedly allows Arsenal to stagger the payments over a longer period, providing financial flexibility.

This development comes after recent speculation that Real Madrid might move for the player, but it’s now confirmed that Arsenal has successfully completed the signing ahead of other interested clubs.

Zubimendi has built a strong reputation in La Liga as one of the most reliable defensive midfielders in Spain. At 26, he has long been tipped to seek a bigger stage to showcase his abilities. Liverpool had previously considered signing him last summer, but he chose to remain with Real Sociedad for another season.

Now, Arsenal has secured a deal to finally bring him to the Premier League, with The Athletic noting that while Madrid showed some interest, they never formally approached Sociedad for a transfer.

Former Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney has previously described Zubimendi as a ‘world-class’ player, and his recent statistics back up that claim. In La Liga last season, the midfielder won 62% of his aerial duels and consistently impressed with his tackling and ball recovery skills.

On average, he made two tackles, two clearances, and four recoveries per match, while his passing range and accuracy have been standout attributes throughout his career.

Zubimendi’s arrival is expected to provide Arsenal with more control and stability in midfield, offering a dependable option in the holding role.

His dynamic distribution and defensive awareness could see him become an upgrade over Thomas Partey in the number 6 position. Despite this, Arsenal is reportedly keen to retain Partey and is in talks to extend his contract beyond its current expiry at the end of June.