Arsenal sign midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in a £51m deal; Spain international has signed a five-year contract after Arsenal agreed transfer in March; Real Madrid and Liverpool had been interested in Zubimendi;

Arsenal have completed their first major signing of the 2025/26 summer transfer window with Martin Zubimendi finally landing from Real Sociedad. Mikel Arteta is pushing to launch a renewed Premier League title challenge in the coming months with Zubimendi highlighted as a key target since the start of 2025.

Zubimendi can be described as a metronome, with his ability in possession making him a strong fit at the base of Arsenal's midfield. Many pundits and fans have thought of Decan Rice as the club's defensive midfielder, but the Englishman has been primarily used by Arteta in a number eight role.