Arsenal have completed the signing of defensive midfielder, Martin Zubimendi, on a long-term contract.
26-year old Zubimendi arrives Emirates Stadium from Spanish La Liga club, Real Sociedad, for whom he recorded 236 appearances in all competitions at first-team level after scaling through the club’s academy.
Martin helped Real Sociedad clinch the delayed 2019/20 Copa del Rey in April 2021 against intercity rivals Athletic Club, alongside current Gunner Mikel Merino.
Zubimendi performed beautifully well for Real Sociedad in the 2022/23 season as the club recorded its highest league finish in recent history, concluding the season in fourth place to secure Uefa Champions League football for only the third time, and the first in 10 years.
According to arsenal.com: “This is a huge moment in my career. It’s the move I was looking for and one I wanted to make. As soon as you set foot here, you realise how big this club and this team are.
“I set my sights on Arsenal because their style of play is a good fit for me. They have shown their potential recently and the best is yet to come.”
Andrea Berta, Gunners Sporting Director: “We are so happy to bring Martin to Arsenal and have a lot of pride in finalising this transfer. Martin was a key target for us and we all know that he is a perfect fit for our squad with the high quality he has.
“We welcome Martin and his family to the club. We look forward to him settling in with his teammates and are very excited to see him playing in an Arsenal shirt.”
Mikel Arteta, Gunners manager: “Martin is a player who will bring a huge amount of quality and football intelligence to our team. He will fit in really well and he has all the attributes to be a key player for us.
“The standard he has consistently performed at over the last few seasons for both club and country is exactly why we are so excited to have him with us. We all welcome Martin and his family to the club.”
Spain international, Martin, will wear the number 36 shirt.
