Arsenal is reportedly nearing the signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi, a player who had previously rejected Liverpool’s advances. Here’s an in-depth look at the situation:
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Arsenal’s Pursuit of Zubimendi
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- Proactive Approach: Arsenal has been interested in Zubimendi since the summer of 2023, with manager Mikel Arteta identifying the Spanish midfielder as a key addition to bolster the squad.
- Release Clause: The 25-year-old has a release clause set at €60m (£51m/$61.9m), which Arsenal is prepared to meet to finalize the transfer.
- Progress Made: Reports suggest the deal is “virtually completed,” and Zubimendi is expected to join the Gunners in the summer of 2025.
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Zubimendi’s Previous Liverpool Rejection
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- Background: Last summer, Liverpool prioritized Zubimendi as a target and reportedly agreed to a deal with Real Sociedad. However, Zubimendi chose to remain in the Basque Country, citing personal and professional reasons.
- Player’s Explanation: In an interview with El Diario Vasco, Zubimendi explained that staying at Real Sociedad was the best decision for his development. He highlighted his importance in the team’s project and his belief that he still had room to grow at the club.
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Liverpool’s Current Stance
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- Shift in Focus: Liverpool appears unlikely to reignite their interest in Zubimendi, particularly given Ryan Gravenberch’s strong performances in a deeper midfield role this season.
- Midfield Reinforcements: With Gravenberch settling into the team and other midfield options available, Liverpool seems content with their current setup and is focusing on other areas for reinforcement.
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Implications of the Transfer
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- Arsenal’s Ambitions: Securing Zubimendi would reinforce Arsenal’s midfield and provide additional depth and quality, helping the team remain competitive in the Premier League and Europe.
- Real Sociedad’s Loss: While Zubimendi’s departure would be a significant blow to the La Liga side, they would benefit financially from the release clause payment.
- Premier League Rivalry: For Liverpool, seeing a former target join a direct competitor like Arsenal adds another layer of intrigue to the league’s competitive dynamics.
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Zubimendi’s Profile and Fit at Arsenal
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- Playing Style: Zubimendi is a technically gifted defensive midfielder known for his composure, passing range, and tactical intelligence. His skill set aligns well with Arteta’s system, which emphasizes ball retention and progressive play.
- Compatibility: At Arsenal, Zubimendi could play as a deep-lying playmaker or partner with the likes of Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard in midfield, offering versatility and stability.
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- Arsenal Finalizing the Deal: With reports of the deal being nearly complete, Arsenal may announce Zubimendi’s signing in the coming months, adding another high-quality player to their squad.
- Liverpool’s Response: While Liverpool has moved on from Zubimendi, they may monitor other midfield targets as they continue to strengthen their squad.
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Zubimendi’s potential move to Arsenal signals the club’s intent to challenge for top honors, and his arrival would be a statement signing in the Premier League.
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The post Martin Zubimendi’s explanation for snubbing Liverpool ahead of $62m transfer to Arsenal appeared first on Sport Gaint.
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