Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi has reportedly verbally agreed to join Arsenal at the end of the season, just months after rejecting a £51 million move to Liverpool.
The Spanish midfielder is now set to swap La Liga for the Premier League, where he could line up against the very team he turned down.
🔄 Zubimendi Rejected Liverpool Last Summer
During the last transfer window, Liverpool made a strong push to sign Zubimendi following his standout displays during Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign.
Arne Slot, now Liverpool’s head coach, was eager to make him his first major signing.
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The Reds were ready to activate his £51m release clause
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Zubimendi spoke directly to Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes
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He ultimately decided to stay loyal to Real Sociedad, his boyhood club
🗣️ "It was an uncomfortable time for me," Zubimendi admitted. "I weighed the pros and cons and concluded that the best option was to stay."
🔴 Arsenal Strike Verbal Agreement
Less than a year after that decision, the tide has turned. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Zubimendi has now given a verbal green light to Arsenal.
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The 26-year-old is said to have agreed to a long-term deal
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Arsenal are expected to trigger his release clause soon
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The deal is set to be completed at the end of the current season
🎯 This could be a major midfield boost for Mikel Arteta’s side ahead of their next campaign.
⚠️ Arsenal Remain Cautious
Despite the excitement, Arsenal are approaching the deal with some caution.
Football insider Ben Jacobs reports that the Gunners are mindful of Zubimendi’s history, noting that he had already backed out of a Premier League move once before.
However, current indications suggest that the player is now fully committed to the Emirates switch.
🧠 Why Zubimendi Could Be a Key Signing for Arsenal
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Strong defensive presence in midfield
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Excellent distribution and tactical awareness
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Euro 2024 experience adds international pedigree
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A long-term option for Arsenal's engine room
With Thomas Partey potentially on the move and Jorginho aging, Zubimendi could be the ideal long-term replacement in Arsenal’s midfield setup.
📌 Transfer Summary
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✅ Player: Martin Zubimendi
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🏟️ From: Real Sociedad
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🔜 To: Arsenal (Verbal Agreement)
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💰 Release Clause: £51 million
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🗓️ Deal Completion: End of current season
