Arsenal could now have a golden chance to sign Spain international

Transfers very rarely happen out of nothing in football – but there is a player Mikel Arteta has wanted for a while now.

Back in January 2023, the Spaniard and Edu chased a deal for Real Sociedad No.4 Martin Zubimendi.

A story from The Athletic even stated that Arsenal were willing to trigger the Spain international’s €60m (£51m) release clause, such was their desperation to sign the playmaker.

However, the 25-year-old wanted to stay in his homeland with Real Sociedad, and Arsenal eventually sealed a £12m deal for Jorginho.

Now – however – Arsenal could have a golden chance to lure Martin Zubimendi to the Emirates Stadium…

Arsenal could have golden chance to sign Martin Zubimendi

Well, Arsenal have something Real Sociedad want – and a potential swap deal could be in the offing, or at least a player plus cash move.

Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images

A story from Steve Kay states that Real Sociedad are keen to sign Thomas Partey this summer – a man who made a name for himself as one of Europe’s best midfielders during his time in Spain with Atletico Madrid.

According to Charles Watts, Arteta and Edu actually think Zubimendi is the perfect option to replace the Ghana international in north London, so the Arsenal No.5 being used as a bargaining chip does not seem that far fetched.

A deal could happen

As aforesaid, transfers rarely happen quickly in football, although it feels like the timing is now right for Zubimendi to join Arsenal.

Reports suggest the Spaniard already knows just how much Arteta wants him in north London, and the 42-year-old is believed to have privately spoken to his fellow countryman on the phone.

Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images

There have even been claims that Arsenal are prepared to double the midfielder’s wages up to £115,000-a-week.

Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as a deal really could materialise this summer.

Martin zubimendiMikel Arteta