Martin Zubimendi ranks among the elite in his role as a classic holding midfielder, primarily focused on distribution and defensive duties, and should free up Declan Rice at Arsenal.

Arsenal have completed their first major signing of the 2025/26 summer transfer window with Martin Zubimendi finally landing from Real Sociedad. Mikel Arteta is pushing to launch a renewed Premier League title challenge in the coming months with Zubimendi highlighted as a key target since the start of 2025.

Martin Zubimendi, the 26-year-old Spain international, has joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad on a five-year contract for a fee of around €65million (£55.8m; $76.6m). Arsenal will pay more than Zubimendi’s €60million release clause but the compromise means they will be able to pay the fee in installments, rather than as one lump sum.