Arsenal's new signature of £ 51 million Martín Zubimendi did not walk to North Londs alone this summer. His arrival was the result of a quietly implemented two -year transfer plan that also supplied Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
The Gunners agreed with the Spanish club last summer. They activated the Merino release clause in 2024 and Zubimendis a year later.
The smart structure helped to distribute the financial edition of Arsenal, allowed Thomas Pedey's contract to lead his course and gave Sociedad the time to replace two of their most influential players. In the meantime, Zubimendi remained his youth side of his youth for a final season.
“It was a really well-oriented plan of the club,” said Mikel Arteta, speaking at the start of Arsenal's pre-season tour in Singapore.
'To understand a way how we could get what we wanted in two different years. And both players really wanted to come, which is very necessary.
'We did what we wanted, I think the players did what they wanted, and I think Real Sociedad was also happy at the end. I think it is a very positive result for all parties. '
The move for Zubimendi was held under Wraps despite late attempts by Real Madrid and Bayern Munich to hijack the deal. The midfielder had previously rejected Liverpool the summer.
“There is always a time when I am not involved, and they probably don't tell me when it really becomes very difficult,” said Arteta.
'But especially if you feel that we are convinced, and then we also get that from the players. If the agent gives you the same impression, you are more likely to get the deal over the line. If one of those three parts is a bit not finished, things can be complicated. In this case I was always very, very positive. '
Zubimendi, who, together with Merino, spoke with the launch of Arsenal and Adidas' New Away Kit at the Nova Rooftop in Singapore, admitted that the move had been brewed behind the scenes.
“I always really wanted to respect Sociedad,” he said. 'But once Arsenal convinced me, I knew it was the right project. Drawing for Arsenal is a big change for me. It is the change I wanted.
'And since the first day I am here, I have noticed the greatness of this club and I am adapting. I don't know what Mikel Arteta saw in me, but what I saw in him is that he is a top coach in Europe.
'When I really wanted to leave, I wanted a quality coach and I think I found one. I have seen how obsessive and detailed he is with his game, so I think I found the right one. '
Now ready to replace Pedey as the midfield anchor of Arsenal, Zubimendi is clear about the task that lies for us and the man is to prevent Arsenal from being the almost men.
“Hopefully,” he said. 'Football is all about the details. I followed them last season in the Champions League and Arsenal was the only team that really came up with PSG and they just missed the details. '