Gunner mikel merino

Gunner Mikel Merino: Arsenal have signed Spanish midfielder Martin Zubamendi on a long-term contract from La Liga side Real Sociedad. He slots right into Mikel Arteta's midfield after the departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho.

As reported by The Athletic, Zubamendi's signature cost Arsenal 65 million euro, which is more than his release clause as the two clubs agreed a deal allowing the Gunners to pay in installments rather than the whole fee upfront. Furthermore, it was Sociedad's request for the deal to be completed after July 1 for accounting purposes.

“This is a huge moment in my career. It's the move I was looking for and one I wanted to make. As soon as you set foot here, you realise how big this club and this team are. I set my sights on Arsenal because their style of play is a good fit for me. They have shown their potential recently and the best is yet to come," said Zubamendi in a statement.