Martin Zubimendi has reportedly touched down in London as he edges closer to sealing a summer switch to Arsenal.
According to The Athletic, the Real Sociedad midfielder is on the verge of completing his move to the Emirates, with the player set to meet club officials and finalise the remaining formalities.
Arsenal have been long-time admirers of the Spain international, who has a £51million release clause in his contract, and Mail Sport revealed earlier this season that the Gunners had moved ahead of their rivals in the race for his signature.
Zubimendi is now poised to become Mikel Arteta’s first signing of the summer as the Arsenal boss looks to strengthen his midfield ahead of the new campaign.
Reports from Spain earlier this month suggested Real Madrid had made contact with the 26-year-old’s camp as they considered an attempt to hijack the Gunners move
A product of Real Sociedad’s youth system, Zubimendi has gone on to play 236 times for the club, while he has scored ten goals.
Zubimendi won the Copa del Rey with Sociedad, while he has enjoyed success on the international stage with Spain, winning Euro 2024 and the 2022-23 edition of the Nations League.
He previously played with current Arsenal stars Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino at Sociedad and is international team-mates with David Raya.
Last year Zubimendi turned down the opportunity to join Liverpool but he will now get the chance to test himself in the Premier League.
The Spaniard’s arrival will come as a relief to the Gunners, with Thomas Partey reportedly set to depart at the end of this month.
According to reports, Partey, whose contract expires at the end of June, is not expected to reach an agreement over a new deal.
Meanwhile, the Gunners remain keen to bolster their attack as they seek to mount another title challenge next season.
Sporting Lisbon striker Victor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko are among leading strikers Arsenal are keen on.
