"After months": Arsenal have now agreed €65m deal to sign 26-year-old star - report

Arsenal are poised to secure their first signing of the summer transfer window, according to The Athletic.

The Gunners have had a quiet start to the summer but are expected to be active over the coming weeks.

There has been much talk about Real Madrid hijacking Arsenal’s pursuit of Martin Zubimendi, but The Athletic clarify that a transfer agreement has been finalised with Real Sociedad.

The outlet reveal that Arsenal will spend €65 million (£55m) on the Sociedad midfielder, more than his release clause of €60m (£51m) after agreeing to pay in multiple instalments.

The Gunners have avoided paying the buy-out clause in one lump sum ‘after months’ of negotiation.

Arsenal set to sign Zubimendi amid Real Madrid speculation

There has been plenty of noise around Madrid making a late move for the Spain international.

Indeed, today’s frontpage story of Marca says Zubimendi is prepared to consider Los Blancos.

However, reputed journalist David Ornstein has confirmed that the 26-year-old’s transfer to the north London giants has been ‘done and sealed’ for some time.

Sociedad have expressed preference for the deal to be ratified on July 1 due to accounting purposes. Zubimendi may undergo his medical at the start of pre-season as a result.

Zubimendi should be a fabulous signing for Mikel Arteta’s side. His ability to dictate play and control proceedings in midfield has been a highlight during his time at Sociedad.

He can also make forward runs through the middle when required and recently showcased his class during the Nations League final loss to Portugal, where he opened the scoring.

The Spaniard should become an undisputed starter from the number six role at Arsenal. The Gunners plan to have Thomas Partey as the backup, but no renewal has been agreed yet.

Partey’s current deal expires at the end of June, and he has yet to finalise terms over a renewal. La Liga giants Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are looking to capitalise on the situation.

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