Arsenal 'closing in on deal for Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi'

Arsenal are reportedly 'very close' to securing a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

The 24-year-old's future is currently the subject of much speculation, with Barcelona, Manchester United and Arsenal all believed to be admirers of the Spain international.

Zubimendi signed a new deal with Real Sociedad last year, with his current agreement running until June 2027.

However, there is a release clause of €60m (£52.9m) in the contract, with Arsenal believed to be prepared to pay the buy-out fee in order to sign him during this summer's transfer window.

According to AS, Zubimendi is now 'very close to accepting an offer' to make the move to Mikel Arteta's side.

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The report claims that Barcelona had viewed the Spaniard as a leading target, but the Catalan outfit have now switched their attention to Fiorentina's Sofyan Amrabat.

Earlier this year, Zubimendi said that he was "very happy" at his current club amid the ongoing speculation.

The midfielder has been in strong form for the Basque side during the 2022-23 campaign, making 39 appearances in all competitions, contributing one goal and three assists in the process.

Zubimendi played the full 90 minutes of his team's 2-0 win over Real Madrid last time out, with the result moving the White and Blues onto 61 points from 33 matches, now seven points ahead of fifth-placed Villarreal in the race to qualify for next season's Champions League.

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The midfielder has made 138 appearances for Real Sociedad in all competitions since debuting for the top-flight side in 2019, contributing four goals and five assists in the process.

A recent report claimed that Arsenal had sent scouts to watch both Zubimendi and Real Sociedad teammate Robin Le Normand, who is also being linked with a switch to the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners returned to winning ways in the Premier League on Tuesday evening, recording a 3-1 victory over London rivals Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium.

However, a recent wobble has allowed Manchester City to take control of the title race, with Pep Guardiola's side one point clear at the top of the table with a game in hand.

Arsenal are next in action away to Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon, while Man City will have the chance to move four points clear when they host Leeds United on Saturday.