Last updated on June 23, 2025
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A minor delay in the announcement is understood to be due to Real Sociedad’s accounting strategy.
Image credit: Arsenal Inside
Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Martin Zubimendi, one of Europe’s most in-demand midfielders—and the Spaniard has already selected his squad number.
The 26-year-old will reportedly wear No.36 at Arsenal, the same number he wore when breaking through at Real Sociedad.
While lower shirt numbers like No.5 or No.8 could open up this summer, sources close to the player suggest he wants to honor his roots by reclaiming his original number.
Transfer Fee & Timeline
Zubimendi’s move is expected to be finalized in early July, with Arsenal agreeing to pay slightly above his €60m (£51m) release clause.
The deal is being structured in installments to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.
A minor delay in the announcement is understood to be due to Real Sociedad’s accounting strategy.
Arteta’s Influence
Mikel Arteta, a fellow Basque native, has been a key figure in convincing Zubimendi to choose North London over long-standing interest from the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich.
Arsenal’s project—and the chance to reunite with ex-Sociedad teammate Martin Ødegaard—reportedly swayed the decision.
Midfield Shake-Up
Zubimendi is arriving as a long-term successor to Jorginho, who has joined Flamengo.
With Thomas Partey’s contract expiring next summer, the Gunners see the Spaniard as a deep-lying conductor who can anchor the midfield and give Declan Rice more attacking freedom.
Neville’s Take
Pundit Gary Neville recently commented:
“Arsenal still don’t have a midfielder who’s comfortable taking the ball on the half-turn under pressure. Zubimendi could be that player.”
