Arsenal has agreed to meet the ‘asking price’ of a world-class midfielder worth £55 million, making him the club’s first signing for 2024. The negotiations have moved quickly, with both parties indicating strong interest in the trade. Notably, this deal has nothing to do with Amadou Onana.
In order to strengthen their team, the Gunners are focusing on defensive and goal-scoring issues. Mikel Arteta is focusing on filling the midfield vacuum left by Granit Xhaka’s absence. The objective is Spain international Martin Zubimendi, who has piqued the curiosity of both Arsenal and Barcelona as a result of his great performances in La Liga with Sociedad.
Reports from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo indicate that Arsenal, among other clubs, is willing to meet Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause, presenting a potential solution to strengthen their squad.
However, a significant obstacle lies in Zubimendi’s uncertainty about leaving Sociedad, particularly with a crucial Champions League last-16 tie against Paris Saint-Germain looming on the horizon.
Zubimendi’s outstanding progress over the past year has won him a spot on the Spain national team, where he received his fourth cap in November. Despite Arsenal’s pressing midfield needs, the choice is dependent on if the player chooses to leave Sociedad.
The timing of Arsenal’s January transfer market move, focused on a defensive midfielder, raises concerns, especially given the club’s anticipated desire for attacking additions in the second half of the season. This strategy tries to close the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool. As the negotiations go quickly, discussions about the player’s shirt number have occurred, and medicals are set for the following week, indicating an imminent addition to Arsenal’s roster.
