Arsenal seal Martin Zubimendi deal despite Real Madrid Interest - When will he join the Gunners?

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Arsenal have successfully thwarted the Real Madrid threat and have secured the signing of Martin Zubimendi, according to reports.

Martin Zubimendi, the Real Sociedad midfielder, has been a long-term summer target for the Gunners. Although their pursuit was on course, reports emerged that Real Madrid are also interested in the player, potentially hijacking Arsenal's deal.

But on Tuesday (June 10), The Athletic reported David Ornstein has reported that the Spaniard's arrival at North London is only a matter of time.

The report claims that the North London club believes the transfer is 'done and signed' despite interests from the Spanish giants. But the player is likely to join his new club in July. Real Sociedad requested Arsenal to conclude the deal in July for accounting purposes, and the midfielder is expected to be part of Arsenal's pre-season tour in Asia.

Zubimendi is a top-notch midfielder who has risen to prominence in recent years. The 26-year-old has spent his whole career at the Basque club and was linked with a move to Liverpool last season. Mikel Arteta has always valued him highly and is now looking increasingly likely to bring the player into the club.

Zubimendi played 48 times for Sociedad last season and scored 2 goals. Known for his defensive abilities, the Spaniard will be a key component of Arsenal's jigsaw next season. He was also part of Spain's Nations League final squad and scored a goal against Portugal, as Spain lost in penalties.

Arsenal will pay Sociedad a fee of £51 million, which will be transferred in instalments. Apart from Zubimendi, the Premier League giants are also linked with RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, while Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is being predicted as their top target for the goalkeeping deputy of David Raya.

The first phase of the transfer window will close on Tuesday (June 10), ahead of the Club World Cup 2025, starting from June 14.