Overview
- The former Arsenal defender says he urged the club “a long time ago” to scout and sign Martin Zubimendi while the midfielder was emerging at Real Sociedad.
- Monreal recounts that Liverpool had pursued Zubimendi earlier, but the player told him he was not ready to leave San Sebastián at that time.
- Arsenal secured Zubimendi in the summer of 2025, with reporting placing the fee at roughly £55 million or about €60 million.
- Monreal says Arteta personally called Zubimendi and effectively outlined the project, which he believes helped seal the decision.
- He praises Zubimendi’s maturity and strong start in London and argues the transfer fee was warranted given the player’s quality and trajectory.