Reports indicate Arsenal has reached an agreement to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi in anticipation of the summer transfer window.
Arsenal, who have tracked the 26-year-old since last summer after his impressive performances for Sociedad, have reportedly secured his signing ahead of rivals Real Madrid.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the North London club has committed to activating the midfielder`s substantial £50 million release clause.
Mikel Arteta`s team must now proceed with the necessary formal steps to finalize the expensive transfer.
The Spanish international has also reportedly agreed personal terms with the Premier League club.
Zubimendi is expected to sign a long-term contract and become Arsenal`s initial acquisition of the summer window.
However, the potential arrival of the defensive midfielder has not been met with universal enthusiasm from some sections of the fanbase at the Emirates.
This is largely due to many Arsenal supporters feeling that the club`s most pressing need for the past three years has been an elite centre-forward.
Many fans and analysts believe a top-tier striker is the missing piece required to end their 21-year wait for a Premier League title.
Some attribute Arsenal`s likely third consecutive season finishing as runners-up to the absence of a high-quality forward.
Fan Reactions:
Despite the doubts, many Arsenal supporters acknowledge the importance of this signing, as Zubimendi is widely considered one of the world`s most promising midfielders.
Additionally, the signing could address uncertainty surrounding Thomas Partey`s future, whose contract is nearing its end in June.
Crucially, Arsenal reportedly edged out Real Madrid for the sought-after prospect, representing a significant transfer coup.
According to Foot Mercato, incoming Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, who is expected to replace Carlo Ancelotti after leaving Bayer Leverkusen, was keen on signing Zubimendi.
The report adds that Alonso had requested Real Madrid president Florentino Perez to secure the midfielder`s signature and also bring in Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah.
“Another midfielder. Do they not realize they haven`t won a trophy because they lack a striker? Laughable.”
“What about a striker???”
“Poor priorities. Arsenal needs a true number 9, not another midfielder.”
“Everyone says Arsenal needs a centre-forward, but Arteta gets his fifth defensive midfielder.”
“Please make a striker the next transfer target!”