January 11, 2026
Martin Zubimendi

Written by Oluwadamilola Olaleye

Martin Zubimendi’s deal was expected to be the first official transfer announcement by Arsenal having made so much progress in negotiations with Real Sociedad albeit links to Real Madrid, his €60m release clause seems to be getting in the way of the deal but with the latest report, the reason for the delay is credited to administrative purposes with Real Sociedad keen to have his full release clause due to financial fair play rules.

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Zubimendi’s contract includes a €60 million release clause and Arsenal will need to pay that amount in full to secure his services. After previous failed attempts by Liverpool and Barcelona to lure him away, the Gunners now appear poised to finally land the highly rated midfielder.

Nonetheless, Real Madrid remain a persistent contender for his signature. Despite reports that Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal is on the verge of completion, Madrid-based media continue to suggest that Los Blancos will make every effort to persuade him otherwise until the transfer is officially confirmed.



Beyond the club’s prestige, Real Madrid have an additional trump card in Xabi Alonso, Zubimendi’s childhood idol, who has recently taken over as the team’s manager—a factor that could sway the midfielder’s final decision.

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Although several reliable sources, The Athletic David Ornstein reports that Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal is expected to be completed, the transfer has yet to be finalized. As of now, the midfielder has not undergone a medical and there are no indications that he will be traveling to the UK in the near future.

Real Sociedad have reportedly requested that the deal be officially confirmed at the beginning of July, citing accounting reasons tied to Financial Fair Play regulations. Arsenal appear willing to respect the Spanish club’s timeline, demonstrating their readiness to accommodate Sociedad’s financial requirements and ensure a smooth transfer process.

In recent weeks, several reports have hinted that Real Madrid might attempt to hijack the move for Zubimendi, while Liverpool and Manchester City have also been linked with the midfielder. Nevertheless, all signs now point to the 26-year-old being on the verge of completing his transfer to Arsenal.

The bulk of the paperwork is already in order, and although he still needs to undergo a medical, there is little reason to expect any further complications as long as everything proceeds smoothly.

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