Arsenal have virtually wrapped up the signing of Martin Zubimendi, despite Real Madrid reportedly launching an attempt to ‘hijack’ the transfer. 

The Real Sociedad midfielder is expected to move to north London this summer following Jorginho’s exit and Thomas Partey’s potential departure, with both players out of contract.

The move appeared to be fait au complet when Fabrizio Romano gave it the ‘here we go’ treatment in May, but reports in Spain on Monday suggested that Los Blancos were not giving up on the player.

Arsenal fend off Real Madrid to seal Zubimendi transfer

However, The Athletic say otherwise, claiming that Arsenal consider the Zubimendi deal to be “done and signed”. Although Madrid like the 26-year-old, they “did not pursue or actively work on recruiting him”.

The Euro 2024 winner has a release clause set at £51 million (€60m). The transfer is expected to be completed in July, which is Real Sociedad’s preference for accounting purposes.

Zubimendi, who last year turned down the chance to join Arne Slot’s Liverpool, will then link up with his new teammates for pre-season.

The report adds that Partey’s future will become clear “in the coming days”. The Ghana international has not come to an agreement with Arsenal over a contract renewal and, should he leave, the club will be in the market for a replacement.

Zubimendi last week created uncertainty by insisting that his future was still up in the air in an interview with Radio Nacional de España.

“Of course there are options, but it’s true that it seems like it’s going to be a different, long summer, and I don’t know how it will end,” he responded when asked if he could stay at Sociedad.

“I don’t think thinking about it right now is my priority. I’m here with the national team, which I think is already quite demanding, and if I have to say something, then I will.”

Read – The last five players Arsenal signed from Chelsea – and how they turned out

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