Arsenal are reported to have reached an agreement to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window. The Gunners have reportedly tracked the 25-year-old since last summer due to his impressive performances and have apparently secured his signature over Real Madrid.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the North London club has agreed to meet Zubimendi`s significant release clause, valued at £50 million. Mikel Arteta`s team still needs to complete the formal procedures for the transfer. The Spanish international has also verbally agreed to a “long-term” contract and is expected to be Arsenal`s first signing of the summer.
However, the news of the defensive midfielder`s impending arrival hasn`t been met with universal excitement among all supporters. Many Arsenal fans have consistently called for the club to prioritize signing a top-tier centre-forward over the past three years.
Numerous fans and commentators believe that acquiring a quality striker is the missing piece required for Arsenal to finally end their 21-year wait for a Premier League title. The perceived lack of a clinical forward has been cited by many as the primary reason for Arteta`s side potentially finishing second in the league for the third consecutive season.
Reacting to the news online, some fans expressed their reservations:
“Another midfielder. Do they recognize that they went trophyless without a striker? Lmao.”
“Striker???”
“Misplaced priorities. Arsenal need a proper number 9, not a midfielder.”
“Everyone: Arsenal still needs a CF – Arteta: Give me my 5th DM.”
“A striker should be the next target please!”
Despite the focus on the striker situation, a considerable number of Arsenal fans recognize the importance of securing a player like Zubimendi, who is widely regarded as one of the world`s most promising midfielders.
Adding to the context, the future of current midfielder Thomas Partey is uncertain, as his contract expires in June. Furthermore, Arsenal reportedly beat off competition from Real Madrid for Zubimendi, which is seen as a significant achievement.
Reports from Foot Mercato suggest that incoming Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, who is expected to succeed Carlo Ancelotti, was keen on signing Zubimendi. The same source claims Alonso requested Los Blancos president Florentino Perez to pursue the midfielder, alongside Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah.
