Arsenal has now reached an agreement to sign a ‘world-class’ 26-year-old star ‘after months’ of discussions – report

As reported by The Athletic, Arsenal has successfully finalized their first signing of the summer transfer window.

The Gunners are looking to enhance their squad with several acquisitions this summer.

While a marquee striker is their primary target, the club is also concentrating on reinforcing other crucial positions.

Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has been rumored to be joining Arsenal for several months, and The Athletic has disclosed that the club has already settled on a deal to secure his signature.

The London club has agreed to pay £55 million, surpassing his £51 million release clause.

This arrangement allows Arsenal the flexibility to pay the reported fee over an extended period.

Recently, Real Madrid has been linked with a potential move for Zubimendi, but The Athletic has confirmed that an agreement is now ‘done and sealed after months’ of negotiations.

Outstanding signing.

Zubimendi has emerged as one of the most coveted defensive midfielders in La Liga.

The 26-year-old has been expected to seek a greater challenge for the past few years.

Liverpool had plans to sign him last summer, but he made an unexpected decision to remain at Sociedad.

The midfielder has now completed a deal to join the Gunners. Although Madrid has shown interest recently, The Athletic clarifies that the Spanish club has not actively pursued a transfer for him.

The Spaniard is poised to be an excellent addition for Arsenal. Zubimendi possesses the qualities necessary to thrive in the Premier League. He has a strong aerial presence, winning 62% of his aerial duels last season.

Zubimendi, who has been labeled ‘world-class’ by former Arsenal player Kieran Tierney, also excels in his ground work.

He averaged 2 tackles per league match for Sociedad, along with 2 clearances and 4 recoveries. His passing range has consistently been one of his strengths over the years.

The Sociedad player ought to offer greater control in the midfield. He is a player who enjoys staying active with rapid distribution and would represent an improvement over Thomas Partey in the number 6 role.

Arsenal remains interested in retaining Partey in the team and is currently negotiating a new contract for him that extends beyond June 30.