Arsenal now making arrangements for a VISA for star coveted by Man City
Real Sociedad defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi is set to undergo a medical before completing a summer transfer move to Arsenal, according to the BBC.
The Spain international is expected to be the first signing of the Gunners this summer, with the North London club also making arrangements for a visa as they close in on his recruitment.
Arsenal and Sociedad have agreed to the payment structures of the £51 million release clause in the contract of Zubimendi.
Their manager Mikel Arteta will be glad the Gunners pipped suitors to his services as the midfielder was also coveted by the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona.
The 26-year-old came close to joining the Reds last summer, changing his mind at the last minute and opting to remain at Sociedad for one more reason.
It is believed Zubimendi snubbed Liverpool once it became clear Arsenal wanted him, and he gladly stayed put in Spain ahead of moving to the Emirates Stadium club this year.
The Gunners are parting ways with Jorginho this summer, and the Spaniard is replacing him and is seen as an upgrade.
Thomas Partey is expected to sign a contract extension after an incredible campaign with Arsenal, and it will be exciting to see if Zubimendi can displace him in the starting XI next season.
The North Londoners are also in the market for a new number 9 and could look to bring in reinforcements at the back too depending on departures this summer.
They finished second in the Premier League this term for the third campaign running and will have to improve their squad with some quality additions if they are to finally go one better in the title race in 2025-26.
A lack of quality squad depth also saw the Gunners miss out on reaching the finals of the Champions League, Carabao Cup and FA Cup, and things must improve significantly next season.
The post Arsenal now making arrangements for a VISA for star coveted by Man City first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.