Arsenal news: Martin Zubimendi move imminent as Thomas Partey departure likely
Arsenal are set to seal their first summer signing as Martin Zubimendi edges closer to the Emirates Stadium.
The Spanish midfielder is expected to be the first of several major signings ahead of the upcoming season, as the North Londoners look to majorly overhaul their squad.
Italian midfielder Jorginho and long-serving Kieran Tierney have already departed North London this summer.
Arsenal set to sign Martin Zubimendi
The Gunners’ pursuit of Zubimendi has been long-reported, but it seems as though Mikel Arteta is finally going to get his man.
Arsenal are set to pay a slightly higher fee than the 26-year-old’s £52million release clause, enabling them to do so in instalments, as per Fabrizio Romano.
The North Londoners have an excellent relationship with Real Sociedad, having signed Mikel Merino from the LaLiga outfit last summer.
It appears to only be a matter of time until Zubimendi is officially an Arsenal player.
Thomas Partey moves closer to Arsenal exit
Thomas Partey impressed at Arsenal last season.
On the other hand, Thomas Partey looks increasingly likely to leave N5 this summer.
According to Romano, negotiations between the Ghanaian and Arsenal are ‘not advancing’, with no agreement in sight.
There is reportedly a ‘concrete chance’ that the 32-year-old will part ways with the Gunners in the coming days.
With Partey’s contract set to expire at the end of this month, the midfielder would leave the Emirates Stadium as a free agent.
The Ghana international made 52 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal last season, playing an integral role both in midfield and at right-back.
While it certainly has not been out of the question that Partey could leave at the end of his contract, it is a surprise to see the Gunners let him go without much of a fight.
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