Martin Zubimendi: Arsenal’s Midfield Solution
Plans are taking shape for Arsenal’s midfield options in the upcoming season, with the Gunners reportedly ready to bid for Real Sociedad £70m-rated star, Martin Zubimendi. Mikel Arteta views the Spanish international as an ideal replacement for Thomas Partey, whose future remains in doubt.
Zubimendi, 25, has established himself as one of the most impressive performers in La Liga in recent seasons. Widely known for his outstanding capability to disrupt play, as well as his awareness and calmness in possession, the defensive midfielder is a respected figure of maturity in the center of Real Sociedad’s midfield. His technical abilities combined with his tactical IQ makes him a perfect fit for Arsenal’s style under Arteta.
Arsenal view Zubimendi as the ideal alternative to Partey, who has become an essential part of the Gunners’ engine-room. Partey’s future, however, has been uncertain. The Ghanaian international is reportedly looking for an exit in the coming months with both Juventus and Inter Milan keen. Now, Arteta and his staff are homing in on finding a long-term replacement to keep the balance in the midfield.
Zubimendi’s £70 million release clause significant but Arsenal are apparently ready to trigger it, which would demonstrate intent to bolster the squad. The 25-year-old has been in fine form for Real Sociedad, where he has made 22 appearances in La Liga so far this season and was essential for Spain in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
Arsenal’s Approach for Martin Zubimendi and Transfer Strategy
Arsenal are well aware of competition for Zubimendi’s signature. Liverpool, alongside Real Madrid, has been tracking the Spanish midfielder among a number of top clubs across Europe. However, the Gunners believe they can land the player, with reports indicating discussions are already at an advanced stage.
Real Sociedad, however, are standing firm on their price tag. And unless his release clause is triggered, they have made it no secret their ace will not be going anywhere. Given Zubimendi’s critical role in their midfield, Sociedad will be unwilling to see him leave on the cheap. But Arsenal’s financial strength and the attraction of moving to a challenging Premier League club may carry weight with the player.
The recent signing —— Zubimendi to Arsenal — is part of that shift as Arsenal seeks to build its midfield. “We were very active in the summer, but still we have to improve the quality and the numbers in the squad for next season with our return to the Champions League.” The Gunners are going to be facing higher-stakes matches, and someone like Zubimendi could offer a healthy mix of steel and creativity in the middle of the pitch.
Author’s Opinion
I would consider a Martin Zubimendi signing as a great step forward for Arsenal. His defensive strengths and playmaking skills would make him a great complement to the more forward-thinking midfielders in Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, giving the manager Arteta a rounded trio of midfielders to work with. £70m may be a sizeable fee, but there is no denying the long-term value Zubimendi would add to the side. His previous experience in Spain’s top flight and on the international stage make him a perfect fit for the Gunners’ midfield rebuild.
Signing Zubimendi would not only be a statement replacement for Partey, but also a clear statement by Arsenal to challenge for major silverware, both domestically and in Europe. Zubimendi would be able to provide the balance and depth that Arsenal need in their pursuit of a return to the summit of European football.
That said, the transition is not without obstacles. Zubimendi’s signature is in high demand, and Arsenal must move fast if they are to stave off interest from competing clubs. However, off the back of a stellar transfer window and with Arteta’s plans for the squad, I genuinely think they have a chance of getting him to the Emirates.
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