Arsenal confident of beating Real Madrid to Martin Zubimendi with lucrative offer

Arsenal are reportedly confident of securing the signature of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer—despite strong interest from Real Madrid.

According to AS via Sport Witness, the Gunners are prepared to offer Zubimendi a staggering €10 million-a-year salary after tax—well above Madrid’s reported €6–7 million proposal. Mikel Arteta, along with sporting director Andrea Berta, believes the deal is effectively done, with Zubimendi expected to join Arsenal after the international break.

However, confusion surrounds the move as the player’s recent comments hint at indecision. While some Spanish outlets claim the transfer is not yet finalised, English sources maintain that both Arsenal and Real Sociedad have completed the paperwork. Zubimendi is also said to have reached a verbal agreement with the Gunners.

The biggest twist? Zubimendi recently referred to Real Madrid’s new boss Xabi Alonso as his idol—fueling speculation that he could favour a move to the Bernabéu. Yet, with Madrid president Florentino Pérez reportedly unconvinced and unwilling to match Arsenal’s financial terms, Arsenal remain in pole position.

Arsenal are expected to trigger Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause, with medicals potentially taking place once international duty concludes. If all goes to plan, the Spanish midfield dynamo could soon be unveiled as Arsenal’s newest marquee signing.