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Martin Zubimendi's move to Arsenal has been on the cards for over four months now. Here are 5 reasons it has taken ages to be finalised.
Arsenal remain confident that Martin Zubimendi will be wearing red and white next season, but the process of signing the Real Sociedad midfielder has taken longer than many expected.
Here are the key reasons why this deal, despite strong interest and mutual respect between clubs, is yet to cross the finish line.
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1. Zubimendi’s Release Clause Complicates the Process
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At the heart of the delay is Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause. Spanish employment law mandates that all La Liga players must, in theory, be able to buy themselves out of their contracts. To manage this, Spanish clubs insert release clauses — and triggering one is not as simple as it sounds.
To activate it, the full amount must be paid in a single instalment directly to La Liga’s central offices. This effectively terminates the player’s contract unilaterally.
Although it's usually the buying club that provides the funds, this technicality creates a rigid financial situation that Arsenal are keen to avoid.
2. Arsenal Know the Risks of Going Behind the Club’s Back
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Arsenal have walked this road before. In 2020, they activated Thomas Partey’s clause at the eleventh hour, blindsiding Atletico Madrid.
The deal was legal and by the book, but it severely strained the relationship between the clubs. Sporting director Andrea Berta was left fuming, and the fallout was far from diplomatic.
This time around, Arsenal are choosing diplomacy over drama.
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3. The Gunners Are Taking the ‘Front Door’ Approach
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The Athletic report that, instead of triggering the clause directly, Arsenal are negotiating openly with Real Sociedad. It’s a strategy that reflects a long-term pursuit — one that dates back even before last summer.
Former Technical director Edu laid the groundwork in 2023, and Jason Ayto has continued the talks since November. This transparent approach has helped Arsenal preserve a positive relationship with Sociedad.
4. Negotiating Means Flexible Payment Terms
One major upside of negotiating directly is financial flexibility. If Arsenal were to trigger the clause, they'd need to hand over the full €60 million in one lump sum.
By talking to Sociedad, Arsenal are working on a more manageable payment schedule — a move that allows the club to better manage its broader summer spending.
5. Arsenal Have Bigger Plans This Summer
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Securing a top-level holding midfielder like Zubimendi is a priority, but it’s not the only one. Arsenal also want to bring in a striker and make further squad improvements.
That makes cash flow and payment structure critically important. Spreading out Zubimendi’s transfer fee allows Arsenal to remain competitive in multiple areas of the market.
While the wait has tested patience, Arsenal’s confidence has never wavered. The delay isn’t due to hesitation or complications with the player; it’s about executing a major transfer the smart way.
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By building trust with Real Sociedad and structuring the deal in a way that suits both sides, Arsenal believe they’re setting themselves up for a successful conclusion — not just for Zubimendi, but for their entire summer rebuild.
The Thomas Partey deal taught Arsenal what can go wrong when clubs feel blindsided. With Zubimendi, they’re playing the long game — and they believe it will be worth it.
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