“Done + signed” – Player in London to Finalise Arsenal Transfer, Says David Ornstein

In what has been long considered a foregone conclusion within the Emirates corridors, Martin Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal is now finally nearing completion. According to renowned transfer expert David Ornstein, the Spanish midfield maestro has landed in London to finalise his much-anticipated switch from Real Sociedad to the Gunners.

Zubimendi, 26, has been on Arsenal’s radar for several windows. Now, after months of speculation and behind-the-scenes negotiations, the deal is finally set to be sealed. Ornstein confirmed the development via his post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the Spanish international is in the capital to undergo final formalities before being unveiled as a new Arsenal player.

“Martin Zubimendi in London to meet Arsenal officials & complete formalities of transfer to Emirates Stadium. 26yo Spain international midfielder joins from Real Sociedad in deal long since regarded at #AFC as done + signed,” wrote Ornstein.

This marks yet another bold midfield reinforcement by Arsenal under manager Mikel Arteta, who has made it a priority to overhaul the squad’s central engine room with technically gifted, tactically intelligent players. Zubimendi perfectly fits that mould.

The departure of veteran midfielder Jorginho, who recently joined Flamengo, left a void in the defensive midfield department—a void that Zubimendi appears primed to fill. Furthermore, with uncertainty still looming over the future of Thomas Partey, who is out of contract this summer, the need for a composed and reliable presence at the base of midfield has never been more urgent.

Fabrizio Romano, another reliable voice in the transfer world, added fuel to the fire by reporting that Partey’s renewal talks are at a standstill. “Negotiations between Arsenal and Thomas Partey over new deal are not advancing. No agreement so far and now concrete chances to part ways in the upcoming days,” Romano shared on social media, indicating the Ghanaian could soon be a free agent.

All eyes will now turn to Zubimendi, who arrives with the reputation of being a calm operator under pressure—a player often compared to the likes of Sergio Busquets and Rodri. His arrival could offer Arsenal a midfield anchor capable of dictating tempo, protecting the defence, and initiating attacking transitions with minimal fuss.

Having spent his entire career at Real Sociedad, Zubimendi is widely respected in La Liga for his football IQ, positional discipline, and ability to read the game. Arsenal fans will be eager to see how quickly he can adapt to the physicality and pace of the Premier League—a factor that has challenged many technically gifted imports in the past.

The signing of Zubimendi is also part of a broader strategy by Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar to inject youth and long-term vision into the squad. Last summer’s acquisition of Mikel Merino, another Spanish midfielder, showed the club’s intent to build a dynamic and possession-dominant midfield core.

Despite this encouraging reinforcement, some Arsenal supporters have voiced concern over the lack of depth in central midfield. While Zubimendi is likely to slot straight into the starting XI, the team will still need dependable rotation options to navigate the grueling demands of domestic and European competitions.

Fitness is another pressing concern. With the exit of two senior midfielders and a history of injury issues across the squad, the Gunners cannot afford to place all responsibility on Zubimendi’s shoulders. His availability and consistency will be crucial, particularly if Arsenal are to mount another serious title challenge next season.

Arsenal have now finished runners-up in the Premier League for three consecutive seasons. It’s clear that the gap to Manchester City remains slim, but significant. The difference often comes down to squad depth, game management in key moments, and big-match experience—areas Arsenal continue to address in the market.

The arrival of Zubimendi could thus be one of several strategic additions. With the midfield issue likely settled, the next area of focus is expected to be the attacking department. Fans have repeatedly called for a proven centre-forward and a pacey, creative winger to complement Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

As much as Zubimendi’s signing is a boost to Arsenal’s title aspirations, the pressure to deliver silverware in 2025/26 is mounting. With Arteta entering his fifth full season at the helm, and with significant investment made over the past few summers, there is little margin for error.

Zubimendi’s transition from La Liga to the Premier League will be watched closely. If he can replicate even a fraction of the control and composure he displayed at Sociedad, Arsenal could finally have the midfield general they’ve lacked since the days of Patrick Vieira.

This move also represents a significant coup over rivals, with reports suggesting that Real Madrid and Bayern Munich had previously kept tabs on the Spaniard. Arsenal’s early move and clear project have proven persuasive once again.

Ultimately, Zubimendi’s signing isn’t just about the present—it’s about building a spine that can challenge for years to come. Alongside the likes of Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, and William Saliba, Arsenal are slowly assembling a core group of players approaching their prime.

In the short term, supporters can look forward to an official announcement, media unveiling, and perhaps even a glimpse of Zubimendi in the club’s new kit during pre-season. With just weeks to go before the summer tour begins, he’ll want to hit the ground running and gel with his new teammates.

And while this signing won’t be the last, it might be the most pivotal. A defensive midfielder who can offer stability, control, and progression from deep is worth his weight in gold—especially for a team that wants to topple Manchester City.

With Zubimendi in, and possibly a striker and winger to follow, Arsenal’s transfer window is beginning to take shape. The road to the Premier League title may be long, but the Gunners are certainly not standing still.