Arsenal’s first signing in London to ‘complete formalities’ ahead of transfer – David Ornstein

Arsenal will make Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi their first signing of the 2025 summer transfer window.

The Spain international has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium for months and the deal is now on the verge of being formally completed.

Transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Zubimendi will join Arsenal, while The Athletic’s David Ornstein has now revealed the Spaniard is in London to meet with Gunners officials and “complete the formalities of his transfer.”

Mikel Arteta’s side are expected to pay a slightly higher fee than his €60 million release clause in order to secure more favourable payment terms and Zubimendi will become the club’s first signing of the summer window – as exclusively reported by FootballTransfers back in early May.

Arteta has driven Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi and the Spaniard is set to bolster the Gunners’ midfield options following the departure of Jorginho to Flamengo and Thomas Partey’s imminent exit on a Bosman deal.

Real Madrid were interested in hijacking Arsenal’s move for Zubimendi, however the Gunners have remained confident of reaching an agreement and the deal is now considered to be done.

The 26-year-old will leave Real Sociedad having racked up 236 first-team appearances for his boyhood club and he could make his competitive Arsenal debut against Manchester United in their opening fixture of the 2025-26 Premier League season.

Arsenal’s summer transfer plans

In addition to Zubimendi, Arsenal are also hoping to bring a new centre forward to the club this summer, although their pursuit of Benjamin Sesko has hit an unexpected obstacle.

As exclusively reported by Duncan Castles on The Transfers Podcast, Sesko wants a release clause worth 20% more than his transfer fee included in his contract if he is to join Arsenal.

Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres has set his sights on moving to Arsenal this summer, but the Gunners have stalled their pursuit due to Sporting CP’s current asking price.

In addition, top target Nico Williams is on the verge of joining Barcelona, while Joan Garcia, who was identified as the perfect back-up to David Raya, has also moved to Camp Nou.

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