Martin Zubimendi has flown to London to complete the formalities ahead of his £55 million move to Arsenal.
The Gunners are in need of midfield reinforcements this summer, with Thomas Partey now expected to leave the Emirates and Jorginho already departing for Flamengo.
Arsenal agreed a deal for Zubimendi back in January, although hysteria spread in the North London club’s fanbase earlier this month after reports emerged suggesting that Real Madrid were looking to hijack the move for the Spaniard.
However, these Real Madrid rumours were dispelled, and the player is now set to become the first signing of new sporting director Andrea Berta’s tenure.
Martin Zubimendi in London to complete Arsenal move
Zubimendi impressed for Spain earlier this month, playing in Rodri’s position in the Manchester City man’s absence.
The deep-lying playmaker played in both the Nations League semi-final and final for his national team, with the latter match being played on 8 June.
He’s since been on holiday, enjoying an eleven-day break before flying to London this week to complete his move to Arsenal.
According to The Athletic, the 26-year-old is in the English capital to meet Gunners officials, complete his medical, undergo his media duties and complete various other formalities, in order for the deal to be finalised.
Arsenal will pay above Zubimendi’s £51 million release clause, with the total fee expected to come in at around £55 million, so that the Gunners can pay in smaller instalments, rather than as a lump sum.
When will Arsenal announce the signing of Martin Zubimendi?
With the formalities likely to be completed over the next 24 to 48 hours, theoretically the signing could be announced at any point over the next few days.
However, it’s expected to be delayed until early July due to accounting reasons.
Real Sociedad have requested Arsenal hold off on the announcement until the start of the new accounting year, so they can process the first instalment in the next year.
The Gunners have obliged, as they look to maintain their excellent relationship with the La Liga club, with whom they negotiated a deal for Mikel Merino last summer.
Thus, Zubimendi’s signing is expected to be announced on 1 July at the earliest.
from Arsenal FC Transfer News, Rumours, Loan Deals & Signings | Arsenal Insider
Alfie Cairns Culshaw