Arsenal have announced the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in a deal worth almost £60m.
Zubimendi is the Gunners’ second signing of the summer transfer window, following the arrival of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for £5m.
Arsenal, in a statement, said:”We’re delighted to announce that Spain international Martin Zubimendi has joined us on a long-term contract.
“The 26-year-old arrives from Real Sociedad, for whom he made 236 appearances in all competitions at first-team level after graduating from the club’s academy. In April 2021, Martin helped Sociedad win the delayed 2019/20 Copa del Rey against intercity rivals Athletic Club, alongside current Gunner Mikel Merino.
“He was then ever-present in 2022/23 as Real Sociedad secured their highest league finish in recent history, ending the season in fourth place to secure Champions League football for only the third time, and the first in 10 years.
“A Spanish international, Martin started all five games in the 2020 Olympic Games as they claimed silver in Tokyo and has gone on to make 19 senior appearances for La Roja, winning the 2023 UEFA Nations League as well as helping his country defeat England 2-1 to win Euro 2024, coming on as a half-time substitute.
Commenting after completing his move to Arsenal, Zubimendi said: “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.”
