Andrea Berta REALLY ‘intent’ on signing £113m duo for Arsenal

Incoming Arsenal Sporting Director Andrea Berta is reportedly determined to bring in two key reinforcements for the Gunners’ squad this summer. Wolves forward Matheus Cunha and Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi are both high on Berta’s priority list, as Arsenal prepare to strengthen their squad for next season.

Despite having a strong squad, Arsenal find themselves trailing Premier League leaders Liverpool by 12 points. While Mikel Arteta’s side remains in contention for silverware—having reached the Champions League quarter-finals against Real Madrid—the club is keen to further bolster their attack and midfield. Berta, who is set to oversee Arsenal’s summer transfer business, has identified these two key targets as essential additions.

The Gunners are already monitoring Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak as their prime attacking target, but reports suggest that Cunha is also an option to provide more depth and firepower in the final third. The Brazilian forward has been a standout performer for Wolves this season, recording 13 goals and four assists in 24 Premier League starts.

Meanwhile, Arsenal’s interest in Zubimendi is not new. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the club has been working on a deal for the Spanish midfielder since February. Negotiations have progressed well, with a broad agreement reportedly reached on personal terms, including wages and bonus structures. Zubimendi has a €60 million (£50.5 million) release clause at Real Sociedad, making him a financially viable option for Arsenal.

On the other hand, Cunha’s buy-out clause at Wolves stands at £62.5 million, meaning Arsenal would have to pay a combined £113 million to secure both players. The investment is seen as necessary to elevate the team’s competitiveness in the Premier League and Europe.

According to GiveMeSport, Berta is particularly determined to get these deals over the line. The report states:

“The Gunners have new sporting director Andrea Berta overseeing the incomings, and early indications show that he is intent on signing Matheus Cunha and Zubimendi – from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Real Sociedad respectively – in particular.”

Berta’s vision for the club aligns with Arteta’s desire to inject more creativity and goal-scoring ability into the squad. Arsenal’s attacking department has relied heavily on Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard, but with injuries affecting key players, the Gunners are looking to refresh their options.

As part of their transfer strategy, Arsenal may consider offers for Martinelli and Trossard, depending on the incoming signings. While both wingers have contributed significantly to the team, the club is evaluating the possibility of restructuring its frontline for next season.

Cunha’s profile fits the mold of what Arsenal is looking for—an energetic and versatile forward who can operate across the front line. His ability to play centrally or on the wings makes him an attractive option for Arteta’s tactical setup.

Meanwhile, Zubimendi is viewed as a long-term replacement for Thomas Partey, whose injury record has raised concerns. The Spanish midfielder possesses excellent ball distribution skills and defensive awareness, making him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s midfield alongside Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard.

Despite Sociedad’s reluctance to part ways with Zubimendi, Arsenal are confident of triggering his release clause. The player himself has remained silent on the speculation, but previous reports suggest he would be open to a move to the Premier League if the conditions are right.

Cunha’s situation is slightly different. While Wolves are not under financial pressure to sell, Arsenal’s interest could test their resolve. The Midlands club would likely demand his full release clause to let him leave, making negotiations potentially tricky.

Arsenal fans will be eager to see how Berta handles his first transfer window at the club. The Italian sporting director, who built an impressive reputation at Atletico Madrid, is known for his ability to spot and acquire top talents.

Should Arsenal secure both Cunha and Zubimendi, it would mark a major statement of intent. The duo would add depth, quality, and versatility, strengthening the team’s push for silverware in the coming seasons.

With the summer transfer window fast approaching, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Arsenal can finalize these deals. Berta’s influence could be decisive in ensuring the Gunners get their top targets over the line.