Arsenal are in the front row to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi amid interest from AC Milan and Juventus.
The Gunners are long-term admirers of the Spain international, but they have been unable to finalise a deal due to the midfielder’s preference to stay at Sociedad.
However, he could move on at the end of this season and Calciomercato claim that the Gunners are favourites ahead of Milan and Juventus due to the price tag.
The outlet report that the player’s €60 million release clause would put him out of the reach of the Serie A giants and he is likely to end up in the Premier League.
Mikel Arteta’s side are currently in the front row to sign the Spaniard this summer.
Arsenal could finally secure Zubimendi’s signature
The Spaniard was reluctant to leave last summer after Sociedad’s qualification for the Champions League, but it seems unlikely that they will repeat the feat this time.
This could pave the way for his departure and Arsenal will no doubt be determined to land his services.
The 25-year-old could be seen as a potential replacement for Thomas Partey, who has been largely injury prone. He has made only seven appearances this campaign.
With his contract expiring in June 2025, the Gunners are likely to contemplate his sale. Zubimendi could be a perfect replacement for the Ghana international next term.
Zubimendi is regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in La Liga. He has averaged 1.6 tackles, 1.8 clearances and 5.4 ball recoveries per appearance this season.
Aside from his defensive qualities, he has also won 60 per cent of his aerial duels with a passing accuracy of almost 87 per cent. Zubimendi’s main strength is his positioning.
Arteta rates him highly and has been eager to bring him to the Premier League. We won’t be surprised if Arsenal make him their first signing of the summer transfer window.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
