Arsenal transfer latest: Gunners target arrives in England to finalise summer move

Arsenal are nearing their first major signing of the summer, with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi reportedly in London to finalize a €65 million transfer to the Emirates Stadium.

The 26-year-old Spanish midfielder, long admired by manager Arteta, is set to strengthen Arsenal’s squad for a serious Premier League title challenge in the 2025/26 season.

Reports indicate Zubimendi was seen at Bilbao’s Loiu Airport on Sunday, heading to England to complete the move. Arsenal have agreed to pay slightly above his €60 million release clause, structuring the deal with staggered payments to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Real Sociedad requested the transfer be finalized after June 30 for financial reasons, potentially delaying the official announcement until early July.

Zubimendi, a product of Sociedad's academy, made 236 appearances for the club, scoring 10 goals and providing nine assists.

He was pivotal in their 2020 Copa del Rey triumph and helped secure Champions League qualification.

He is expected to replace the departing Thomas Partey.