Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement to sign long-term target Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, with the club prepared to activate his £51 million release clause ahead of a summer transfer.

According to reports, the Gunners have been pursuing the Spanish defensive midfielder for over a year, with Mail Sport first revealing back in January that the deal had been effectively finalised during the winter transfer window.

Although Arsenal were keen to secure Zubimendi's services earlier this year, Real Sociedad insisted the player remain in Spain until the end of the current season.

Despite attracting interest from both Arsenal and Liverpool last summer, Zubimendi opted to stay with Sociedad. It is understood that Arsenal did not submit a formal offer for the 26-year-old during the 2024 window.

However, as per renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Zubimendi has now verbally agreed to a long-term deal with the north London side.

The final formalities are considered straightforward, with Arsenal ready to trigger the £51 million buyout clause to bring the midfielder to the Emirates Stadium.

Zubimendi is expected to become the first signing overseen by new sporting director Andrea Berta, who arrived from Atlético Madrid in March following the departures of Edu and interim director Jason Ayto.

In addition to Liverpool, Arsenal also reportedly fended off competition from Manchester City in the race to sign the Spanish international.

While many supporters have been urging the club to prioritise a forward during the upcoming transfer window, Arsenal have made strengthening the midfield a key objective – particularly with Jorginho and Thomas Partey both approaching the end of their contracts.

Mail Sport understands that Jorginho is a target for Brazilian side Flamengo, who hope to sign him in time for this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup. There has been no confirmation regarding Partey’s future at the club.

Zubimendi, widely regarded as one of Europe’s most talented midfielders, played a vital role in Spain’s victorious UEFA Euro 2024 campaign. His desire to compete in the Champions League is believed to have been a decisive factor in his decision to move.

Real Sociedad currently sit 11th in La Liga and appear unlikely to qualify for European competition next season. Arsenal, on the other hand, have just exited the Champions League at the semi-final stage following their defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, but are well-placed to secure qualification once again for the 2025 campaign.

Zubimendi joined Real Sociedad’s youth academy in 2011 and made his senior debut in 2019. Since cementing his place in the first team in 2020, he has made 232 appearances for the club.

Internationally, he represented Spain at various youth levels before making his senior debut in 2021. He has since earned 17 caps for his country.