Arsenal are set for another busy summer transfer window. Mikel Arteta is hoping to add new signings to his squad as the Gunners prepare for a return to the Champions League next term.
Arsenal could still win the Premier League title which could see them attract some of the top talents from across Europe. Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has been heavily linked with a switch to the Emirates Stadium this summer, along with West Ham captain Declan Rice.
football.london reported in January that Rice has emerged as a priority for the Gunners this summer. football.london understands that reports of interest in the Spaniard from Arsenal are genuine, however, Sociedad were adamant that he would not be leaving the Reale Arena during the January transfer window - and the 24-year-old is said to have a release clause of £53million in his current contract.
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With that said, football.london takes a look at the latest rumours and reports regarding Zubimendi joining Arsenal.
Martin Zubimendi responds to Arsenal links
Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has dismissed links suggesting he could complete a transfer to Arsenal this summer.
The Spaniard has reiterated his commitment to Sociedad in a recent interview and snubbed rumours linking him with a move to the Premier League. “I have never planned to leave Real Sociedad — I always say that," Zubimendi told Marca.
"I love life here, at home, I’m so happy here. The value of this club are same as mine so I feel very good, I always said that I’m happy.”
Deal ‘close’
Arsenal have been given the green light to sign Zubimendi ahead of Catalan giants Barcelona this summer, according to Spanish outlet Diario AS. Their report claims that the Blaugrana have backed out of a move for the talented midfielder, and will instead target Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, who enjoyed a stellar 2022 World Cup campaign with Morocco.
A move to the Emirates Stadium for Zubimendi seems more likely, with the report claiming that he would be "very close" to accepting an offer to join the Gunners and play under Arteta.
Player’s stance
Zubimendi admitted that he wasn’t interested in a move away from Sociedad during the January transfer window. Speaking to Spanish outlet Sport back in March, he said: "Rumours, rumours, because I told my manager that I didn't want to hear anything, especially in winter.
“Leaving Real Sociedad aside with the season we are having would be illogical. Here I am very happy."
Interest confirmed
football.london understands that reports of interest in the Spaniard from Arsenal are genuine, however, Sociedad were adamant that he would not be leaving the Reale Arena during the January transfer window. The 24-year-old is said to have a release clause of £53 million in his current contract with the La Liga club.
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