Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo, Ander Barrenetxea and Aritz Elustondo. (REUTERS/Violeta Santos)
Arsenal were one of the busiest Premier League clubs in the summer transfer window.
The Gunners strengthened all over the pitch, landing Noni Madueke from Chelsea, headline signing Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting Lisbon — finally the out-and-out striker Mikel Arteta has craved — and Christian Mosquera from Valencia, among others.
The new arrivals have settled quickly, with Arsenal looking as deep and balanced as they’ve been in years. But the standout addition so far? Martin Zubimendi.
The Spanish midfielder has been nothing short of a revelation since swapping Real Sociedad for the Emirates. Not only has he brought composure and control to Arsenal’s midfield, but he’s also chipped in with goals — scoring twice in a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
Now, it appears Arsenal could be ready to raid Zubimendi’s old club once again.
Arsenal Preparing Kubo Bid
According to Fichajes, Arsenal are preparing a move for Takefusa Kubo, with a winter bid in the region of £38 million on the table.
The Japan international has a €60m (£51m) release clause, meaning Sociedad are under no pressure to sell, but Arsenal are hopeful their strong ties — plus the lure of Premier League football — could tilt the negotiations in their favour.
Kubo, 23, has established himself as one of La Liga’s most dangerous attacking outlets. Last season, he contributed 7 goals and 5 assists in 35 matches, playing a vital role in Sociedad’s push for Europe.
His quality has long been recognised at the very top level. Former Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane, who coached Kubo during his time at Los Blancos, once described him as “outstanding.”
“His talent is obvious, but the reason why he will one day be a football superstar is his head. “He sees things that other people don’t see,” Zidane said. “He is very skilled technically but also very brave, he’s not scared of the ball or of taking on responsibility.”
He added: “He’s a natural leader and he’s comfortable with the pressure. He has the ingredients to one day be a superstar.”
If Arsenal can secure Kubo for anywhere near their proposed figure — and if he settles as quickly as Zubimendi has — then Arteta may well have another bargain Spanish import on his hands.
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