Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is at the top of Mikel Arteta’s shortlist of summer targets according to reports today.

According to The Daily Express’ Lewis Winter, the San Sebastian-born 24-year-old is close to a move to the Emirates Stadium after impressing his Spanish compatriot Mikel Arteta enough to trust him with a key role to play at the base of the midfield with Zubimendi likely to challenge for a starting spot alongside midfielders Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka next season.

The news has come as a shock to many Gunners fans after it was revealed yesterday that Declan Rice was in the frame to become Arsenal’s new holding midfielder as part of Arteta’s $250m summer war chest. 

Spanish international Martin Zubimendi admired by Mikel Arteta after glowing season

And after another accomplished performance by the Spanish international in La Real’s 2-0 win over Real Madrid on Tuesday night, Zubimendi looks ready to take his game to the next level.

If Zubimendi does leave Real Sociedad in the summer, he leaves them in a strong position with La Real currently sitting fourth in La Liga and in the Champions League spots, seven points clear of Villarreal in fifth.