Arsenal sign Spain midfielder Zubimendi from Real Sociedad

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Soccer Football - Nations League - Final - Portugal v Spain - Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany - June 8, 2025 Spains Martin Zubimendi celebrates scoring their first goal REUTERS/Annegret Hilse

Arsenal have signed defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad on a long-term contract, the Premier League club said on Sunday as the club reinforced a key position weakened by departures last month.

Financial details were not disclosed but British media reports said the 26-year-old had a 60 million euros ($70.67 million) release clause at Sociedad where he had a contract until 2027.

Zubimendi is Arsenals second recruit in the close-season after goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen a squad that can get over the line in the title race after finishing runners-up in the last three Premier League seasons.

This is a huge moment in my career. Its the move I was looking for and one I wanted to make. As soon as you set foot here, you realise how big this club and this team are, Zubimendi said in a statement.

I set my sights on Arsenal because their style of play is a good fit for me. They have shown their potential recently and the best is yet to come.

Zubimendis arrival is a welcome reinforcement for Arsenal in midfield after Jorginho and Thomas Partey left at the end of their contracts last month.

Renowned for his mobility, his deep-lying playmaking skills as well as his defensive nous, Zubimendi will give Arsenals midfield a measure