Weeks ago, it was reported in Spain that Real Madrid were raising the white flag with their efforts to sign Martin Zubimendi. That was because Arsenal had informed them, during the dinners that executives have around Champions League games, that they had already got a deal over the line.
Los Blancos hadn’t been going in full throttle, but that was the end of any loose plan to do so.
Then a few days ago, Zubimendi gave an interview to Real Sociedad’s official channels. It very much looked like the start of goodbyes, with him talking about his time with the club since being a child and his love for the region he’s from.
After that, it was a case of waiting for the announcement which would likely come at the end of the season. Then journalists started trying to get ahead of the game and be the one with the scoop.
Noticias de Gipuzkoa, local to La Real, have seen those claims and contacted their local sources, who have said yes, Zubimendi is joining Arsenal. It’s stated he has ‘four matches left’ with Real Sociedad and will then become a Gunner.
It’s also reported Arsenal may pay higher than the player’s €60m release clause, to take away the hassle of actually having to deposit the clause with La Liga and paying it in one go.
Martin Zubimendi | “I couldn’t ask for more”
Midfielder talks to club media and it all feels like a goodbye… or at least the prelude to a goodbyehttps://t.co/w8oXxiJ8cp #afc
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) May 8, 2025
