Arsenal complete signing of Spain international

Arsenal have completed their second signing of the summer transfer window, with midfielder Martin Zubimendi joining from Real Sociedad. 

The Gunners confirmed on Sunday that the midfielder had signed a long-term contract with the club, with Zubimendi becoming Arsenal’s second signing of the summer following the arrival of compatriot Kepa Arrizabalaga from rivals Chelsea.

The North London giants had been heavily linked with a move for the 26-year-old for several months now, but he will now join Mikel Arteta’s squad and bolster his options in midfield, following the departures of both Jorginho and Thomas Partey since the end of last season.

Until now Zubimendi had spent his entire senior career with boyhood club Real Sociedad, making more than 230 appearances for the Spanish side across all competitions.

He had scored ten goals and registered nine assists for the La Liga giants, helping them to win the Spanish Cup in 2020.

Zubimendi has joined Arsenal after months of speculation linking him with a move to The Emirates (Photo: dap media GmbH/Alamy)

Arguably his biggest achievement to date, however, is being part of the Spain squad that won the European Championships in 2024 under Luis de la Fuente.

Zubimendi featured in three of Spain’s first six matches at the tournament in Germany, before being substituted on at half-time in the final against England.

The central midfielder put in a fine display to help Spain run out 2-1 winners over the Three Lions.

Arsenal also confirmed that the Spaniard will don the number 36 shirt for the Gunners this season, with the midfielder set to join up with his new teammates when they report for pre-season ahead of a tour of Asia later this month.