Overview

• Arsenal activated Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause to secure the 26-year-old on a five-year contract, outpacing interest from Real Madrid and Liverpool.
• The Basque midfielder joins former teammate Mikel Merino to fill the defensive anchor role vacated by Jorginho and Thomas Partey.
• The transfer fee is being paid in instalments to align with Premier League Profit & Sustainability Rules and optimise the club’s cash flow.
• A pre-agreement struck in March capped a year-long pursuit that reflected Arsenal’s emphasis on long-term recruitment planning and cultural fit under Mikel Arteta.
• Zubimendi will integrate into pre-season training immediately as Arsenal focus on blending new signings and pursuing further squad enhancements.