“This is happening” – Journalist says Arsenal signing “world-class” player is “considered done”

The final whistle of Arsenal’s 2024-25 Premier League campaign has barely echoed around stadiums across England, yet the transfer machinery at the Emirates Stadium is already in full swing. With the Gunners finishing as runners-up to Liverpool by a significant 10-point margin, the urgency for reinforcement has never been more apparent. Manager Mikel Arteta, speaking candidly about the club’s immediate future, revealed his excitement and determination to reshape the squad for another title challenge.

Following Arsenal’s final match against Southampton, Arteta’s passion for the upcoming transfer window was palpable. When questioned about planning for the new season, the Spanish tactician admitted to experiencing genuine physical excitement at the prospect of strengthening his squad. “The moment I start to think about that, I feel goosebumps and excitement,” Arteta confessed, revealing the depth of his commitment to closing the gap on their rivals.

The Arsenal manager’s methodical approach to planning has been evident throughout his tenure. He emphasized that preparations for the new season begin months in advance, with pre-season arrangements and early-season strategies already finalized well before the current campaign concluded. This forward-thinking approach reflects the professionalism and ambition that has characterized Arsenal’s transformation under Arteta’s leadership.

“My day will look already different,” Arteta explained, highlighting how his focus would shift from match preparation to transfer planning. “There are a lot of things to do, but it won’t be, especially with that feeling in my tummy, that feeling of a game is coming up. It will be a different one and that changes everything.”

Arsenal’s commitment to backing their manager financially has been substantial since Arteta’s appointment. The club’s transfer spending patterns reveal a steady increase in investment, particularly in recent summers. The 2023-24 summer window saw Arsenal commit £208 million to new signings, representing their highest single-window expenditure under the current regime.

The progression of spending tells a story of growing ambition. From modest beginnings with £81.5 million in the 2020-21 summer window, Arsenal have consistently increased their investment. The 2021-22 summer brought £156.8 million in new talent, followed by £121.5 million the following year, before the significant £208 million outlay in 2023-24. Most recently, the 2024-25 summer saw £101.5 million invested in squad improvements.

This financial backing demonstrates the club’s commitment to Arteta’s project and their determination to compete at the highest level. The steady increase in spending reflects both the manager’s growing influence and the board’s confidence in his ability to deliver success.

At the heart of Arsenal’s summer planning lies the pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The 26-year-old Spanish international has emerged as a priority target, with negotiations reportedly reaching advanced stages. The midfielder’s profile perfectly fits Arsenal’s requirements: technically gifted, experienced at the highest level, and proven in both domestic and international competitions.

Zubimendi’s credentials are impressive. A key figure in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, he has consistently performed at the highest level for Real Sociedad. His technical ability, vision, and defensive work rate make him an ideal candidate to anchor Arsenal’s midfield. The midfielder’s versatility and tactical intelligence would provide Arteta with the kind of player capable of controlling games and dictating tempo.

However, the transfer has been far from straightforward. Initial reports suggested a medical had been arranged for the £51 million-rated player, with transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano even providing his famous ‘here we go’ confirmation. This appeared to signal that the deal was progressing smoothly toward completion.

The situation took an unexpected turn when Zubimendi himself publicly addressed the speculation. Speaking to Radio Nacional, the midfielder denied claims about a medical being scheduled, throwing uncertainty over the entire transfer. His comments suggested that reports of an imminent move were premature, causing concern among Arsenal supporters who had begun to anticipate the signing.

Adding to the confusion, Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay also denied Arsenal’s advances, suggesting that no agreement had been reached between the clubs. These public denials created doubt about the true status of the negotiations and whether Arsenal’s pursuit would ultimately prove successful.

Despite the public denials and apparent confusion, journalist Graeme Bailey has provided reassurance to Arsenal supporters concerned about the Zubimendi transfer. Speaking to The Boot Room, Bailey revealed that sources close to the situation remain confident that the deal will proceed as planned.

“Arsenal are aware of the quotes from Zubimendi – but from what I am told, the deal is considered done at the Emirates,” Bailey explained. His sources suggest that the club is not concerned by the midfielder’s public comments or the potential intervention of other clubs, including Real Madrid.

The journalist’s insight provides context for the apparent contradictions in public statements. Bailey explained that Arsenal expected such complications to arise, particularly following Xabi Alonso’s appointment at Real Sociedad. The connection between the former Liverpool midfielder and his Spanish club could potentially influence Zubimendi’s decision-making process.

“They are not worried, they knew these things might come up when Xabi Alonso was appointed,” Bailey continued. “From what I am told, this is happening – it is a done deal. But obviously, the fans want to see that picture of him holding the shirt up, signed and sealed. Until that point, speculation is open to continue.”

This behind-the-scenes perspective suggests that the public denials may be part of a complex negotiation process, with all parties managing expectations and media pressure while working toward a resolution.

The pursuit of Zubimendi addresses several strategic needs within Arsenal’s squad. The midfielder would provide depth and quality in a position where the club faces uncertainty. Thomas Partey’s future remains unclear, with the Ghanaian international’s contract situation unresolved. Meanwhile, Jorginho has been confirmed to be leaving the club, creating a significant gap in midfield experience and leadership.

Zubimendi’s arrival would not only fill these gaps but elevate the overall quality of Arsenal’s midfield options. His technical ability and tactical understanding would complement existing players like Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, creating a well-balanced and versatile midfield unit capable of adapting to different tactical requirements.

The Spanish international’s experience in high-pressure situations, demonstrated through his performances for both club and country, would be invaluable in Arsenal’s pursuit of major trophies. His involvement in Spain’s Euro 2024 success showcases his ability to perform when it matters most, a quality that could prove crucial in title-deciding moments

While Zubimendi represents a key target, Arsenal’s summer plans extend far beyond one signing. The club has been linked with several high-profile players across different positions, reflecting Arteta’s desire for comprehensive squad improvement.

The striker position remains a priority, with Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP and Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig both reportedly on Arsenal’s radar. The BBC has confirmed the club’s interest in both players, suggesting that finding a reliable goalscorer remains high on the agenda. The need for attacking reinforcement became apparent throughout the season, with Arsenal sometimes lacking the clinical edge required to convert dominance into victories.

Defensive reinforcement has also been considered, with the club having held talks over a potential deal for Dean Huijsen before his move to Real Madrid. The young defender’s profile fits Arsenal’s preference for combining immediate impact with long-term potential.

Wing positions are another area of focus, with Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reporting that sporting director Andrea Berta is actively pursuing new wide options. This suggests a comprehensive approach to squad building, addressing multiple positions rather than focusing solely on one or two key signings

Arsenal’s transfer ambitions reflect the scale of the challenge they face in closing the gap on Liverpool and other title contenders. The 10-point deficit that separated them from the championship represents a significant margin that cannot be bridged through minor adjustments alone.

The club’s recent history demonstrates both the potential for rapid improvement and the complexity of sustaining progress. Under Arteta, Arsenal have transformed from mid-table mediocrity to consistent top-four finishers and genuine title contenders. However, the final step toward championship success has proven elusive, requiring additional quality and depth.

The summer transfer window represents an opportunity to address these shortcomings and build a squad capable of maintaining consistency across multiple competitions. Arsenal’s return to the Champions League has added another layer of complexity to squad planning, requiring depth and versatility to compete effectively on multiple fronts.

Arsenal’s transfer activity must balance ambition with financial responsibility. The club’s significant investment in recent windows demonstrates their commitment to success, but also highlights the need for careful planning and strategic decision-making.

The £51 million reportedly required for Zubimendi represents a substantial but not unreasonable investment for a player of his caliber and age. At 26, the midfielder offers both immediate impact and long-term value, fitting Arsenal’s preference for signings that can contribute over multiple seasons.

However, the cumulative cost of addressing multiple positions could require careful financial management. The club must balance the desire for immediate improvement with the need to maintain long-term sustainability and comply with financial regulations.

Arsenal supporters have experienced both the excitement of genuine title challenges and the disappointment of falling short in crucial moments. This emotional investment creates both opportunity and pressure for the club’s leadership.

The Zubimendi situation exemplifies this dynamic, with fans eager for confirmation of signings that could push the club toward success. The uncertainty surrounding the transfer has generated significant discussion and speculation, reflecting the passionate engagement of the supporter base.

Managing these expectations while conducting complex negotiations represents a delicate balance. The club must maintain transparency and communication with supporters while preserving the confidentiality necessary for successful deal-making

As Arsenal prepare for another crucial summer, the stakes could not be higher. The gap to Liverpool serves as a stark reminder of the work required to achieve their ultimate objective. However, the foundation built under Arteta provides reason for optimism.

The Zubimendi transfer, whether completed or not, symbolizes Arsenal’s ambition and methodology. The pursuit of such a high-quality player demonstrates the club’s commitment to competing at the highest level and their belief in Arteta’s vision.

The coming weeks will reveal whether Arsenal can translate their planning and ambition into concrete signings. Success in the transfer market could prove decisive in determining whether the 2025-26 season brings the championship that has eluded them for so long.

The combination of Arteta’s tactical acumen, the club’s financial backing, and the passionate support of their fans creates the ingredients for success. Whether these elements can combine to deliver the ultimate prize remains to be seen, but the foundation for achievement is undoubtedly in place.

As Arteta himself noted, the excitement and anticipation surrounding the summer transfer window reflects the club’s ambition and potential. The challenge now lies in converting that potential into the tangible success that Arsenal and their supporters crave.