Arsenal have begun their summer transfer window with focused precision, targeting two strategic additions to bolster Mikel Arteta’s squad: a midfield general and a reliable goalkeeper. The Gunners are close to sealing deals for Martín Zubimendi, the highly-rated Spanish defensive midfielder, and Kepa Arrizabalaga, the experienced goalkeeper who has proven himself at the top level.
Together, these two signings are expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping Arsenal’s core, strengthening the spine of the team ahead of a season filled with Premier League and Champions League ambitions.
Martín Zubimendi – The £55 Million Midfield Anchor
At 26 years old, Martín Zubimendi has quietly become one of Europe’s most intelligent and composed holding midfielders. Arsenal have pursued him with unwavering determination, and now, they are on the verge of bringing him to the Emirates for a fee of around £55 million. The Spanish midfielder’s calm demeanor, positional awareness, and excellent passing range make him an ideal partner for Declan Rice in Arteta’s evolving midfield setup.
Zubimendi brings something Arsenal have been missing since the departure of Granit Xhaka: a deep-lying playmaker who can dictate the tempo of a match while shielding the backline. His intelligence in reading the game, combined with his disciplined movement, allows his teammates to play with more freedom and confidence. While Declan Rice covers ground and breaks up play with physical dominance, Zubimendi provides balance by offering control, composure, and clean distribution.
His consistent performances over the past few seasons in Spain have caught the attention of top European clubs, but Arsenal’s long-term planning and Arteta’s vision seem to have tipped the scale in their favor. Zubimendi is not flashy, but he is effective—his value lies in doing the simple things exceptionally well. That is exactly what Arsenal need to stabilize the midfield and compete at the very top.
Zubimendi’s Role in Arteta’s System
With Zubimendi in the fold, Arteta gains more tactical flexibility. He can now alternate between a double pivot with Rice or use Zubimendi as a lone defensive midfielder, allowing Rice and Ødegaard to push further forward. This could bring out the best in Ødegaard’s creative instincts and allow Rice to use his athleticism more aggressively in attacking transitions.
Zubimendi also provides Arsenal with the option to control games against high-pressing opponents. His calmness under pressure, quick turns, and ability to switch play make him invaluable in build-up phases. In essence, he’s the type of player who improves those around him—by giving time and space to the more attacking players while protecting the defense with intelligent positioning.
Moreover, at 26, he is entering his prime. Arsenal have not only bought quality, but also long-term reliability.
Kepa Arrizabalaga – A £5 Million Value Signing with Experience
While the Zubimendi deal grabbed headlines for its fee, Arsenal’s other likely signing—Kepa Arrizabalaga—might be one of the smartest pieces of business this summer. For just £5 million, Arsenal are set to secure a goalkeeper with vast experience in both domestic and European competitions. Kepa, who was once the most expensive goalkeeper in the world, is looking for a fresh chapter to re-establish himself as a top-tier performer.
Though he faced criticism earlier in his career, Kepa has matured significantly in recent seasons. His reflexes remain sharp, he’s comfortable with the ball at his feet, and his big-game temperament has improved with age. For Arsenal, he offers not just quality but competition. David Raya has impressed since arriving, but having another proven option will push both goalkeepers to maintain a high standard.
Importantly, Kepa is well-suited to Arsenal’s style of play. Arteta demands that his goalkeepers participate in build-up play, often initiating moves from the back. Kepa’s passing range and decision-making under pressure fit that model. With Champions League fixtures, domestic cups, and a demanding league campaign, squad rotation will be key—Kepa brings the depth needed without compromising performance.
Why These Two Moves Make Sense
Arsenal’s decision to invest £60 million in strengthening two vital positions—midfield and goal—demonstrates a strategic approach. Both signings address key areas that lacked depth or consistency last season. Here’s why these moves are timely and impactful:
1. Strength in Depth
Both players bring quality and competition to the squad. Injuries, suspensions, and fixture congestion demand a deeper bench. These additions allow Arsenal to rest key players without a drop in standards.
2. Champions League Ambitions
Competing on multiple fronts requires players with experience at the highest level. Kepa has played in European finals; Zubimendi has anchored midfields in high-stakes La Liga and Europa League matches.
3. Leadership and Maturity
Zubimendi brings leadership through calm authority. Kepa brings maturity through years of elite-level football. These are players who can guide younger talents and help raise the club’s overall mentality.
4. Financial Efficiency
While £55 million is a significant fee, it’s a justifiable investment in a key role. Securing a goalkeeper like Kepa for just £5 million is remarkable in today’s inflated market—especially considering his experience and technical skills.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
With these two signings nearly over the line, Arsenal are expected to shift focus to the forward line. Rumors are circling about a major striker signing to complement their existing attacking talent. The idea is to add more clinical finishing and positional depth to a front three that relies heavily on Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus.
Defensive reinforcements may also follow, especially if there are departures. Several fringe players could be offloaded to balance the books and create room for emerging academy prospects or future signings.
Conclusion
Martín Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga may not be headline-grabbing names to all football fans, but for Arsenal, they represent exactly what’s needed: quality, experience, and dependability. One brings calm to the midfield storm; the other brings stability between the posts. Together, they lay a strong foundation for Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware next season.
As the summer window heats up, Arsenal’s early business sends a clear message—they are building not just for participation, but for domination.
