Arsenal consider Martin Zubimendi’s move from Real Sociedad to be “done and signed”, with the delay in an official announcement being explained.
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Release clause triggered in midfielder's contractSociedad delaying proceedings for accounting purposesBlancos never made a play for Spain internationalFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The Gunners are said to have triggered the £51 million ($69m) release clause in Zubimendi’s contract. The Spain international is now poised to complete a transfer to Emirates Stadium.
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No switch has been confirmed as yet, but Premier League heavyweights in north London are adamant that they have got their man. reports as much, with Arsenal confident that any late drama in negotiations can be avoided.
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It is claimed that Real Sociedad have “expressed a preference for the deal to be ratified in July for accounting purposes”, meaning that Zubimendi will still be cleared to link up with the Gunners for pre-season training.
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There were suggestions that Real Madrid were prepared to make a play for Zubimendi, but The Athletic states that “the 15-time European champions like the player but did not pursue or actively work on recruiting him”.