According to FBref, Zubimendi looks like the ideal fit in the number six role, averaging 1.31 interceptions, 2.65 clearances, 1.36 blocks, and has won 1.64 aerial duels per 90 minutes in the 2024/25 La Liga campaign.

Liverpool reportedly triggered Zubimendi’s affordable £60 million ($81.3 million) release clause in 2024 only to be rejected by the player. That same summer, Arsenal bought his Real Sociedad teammate Mikel Merino and, as has now been revealed, greased the wheels for Zubimendi’s arrival.

As Arsenal move closer towards the signing of Viktor Gyokeres, many fans may remember the transfer rule the north Londoners have tried to enforce over the years