Arsenal in advanced Zubimendi talks

According to multiple sources, Arsenal are in advanced negotiations over a potential transfer of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.

The 25-year-old midfielder was heavily targeted by Liverpool last summer, and having reportedly agreed to the proposed Anfield move, he changed his mind at the eleventh hour and decided not to leave his boyhood club. However, reports later broke about him changing his mind again and regretting his decision, by which time the Merseysiders had moved on.

Manchester City have been credited with interest as well, following the injury which ruled out Rodri for the rest of the season. Apparently, they felt that the man tasked with being the backup option for the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner for Spain would do nicely in the same role under Pep Guardiola as well.

But it seems Arsenal have taken the matter more seriously than any other prospective suitor, though their plan is for Zubimendi to join their ranks in the summer, not this month. They would be prepared to trigger the €60 million release clause in his contract with Sociedad, but for the time being, they’re locked in negotiations with his representatives over personal terms.

🚨🔴⚪️ Arsenal are in advanced talks to sign Martin Zubimendi for summer 2025.

Negotiations underway with player side as positive talks took place behind the scenes, as revealed by @SamiMokbel81_DM. Final key steps still needed.

Arsenal plan to trigger €60m release clause. pic.twitter.com/msM1B2I9yl

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 14, 2025