Arsenal have reportedly identified Real Sociedad playmaker Takefusa Kubo as a potential summer transfer target.
With new sporting director Andrea Berta at the helm, the Gunners are preparing to make significant additions to Mikel Arteta's squad.
Martin Zubimendi - also of Real Sociedad - is believed to be ready to undergo a medical ahead of a £51m switch to the Emirates Stadium.
The next objective of the Gunners is likely to be acquiring a player who is capable of being deployed down the centre of their attack, either a traditional number nine or a versatile attacker.
Nevertheless, according to AS, Arsenal are one of two clubs interesting in signing diminutive creator Kubo.
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Arsenal exploring Kubo move
The report alleges that Arsenal and Liverpool are each 'knocking on the door' for the Japan international's signature this summer.
There is the potential for a major transitional period being on the horizon at Real Sociedad with head coach Imanol Alguacil and sporting director Roberto Olabe having left the club on the back of the failure to qualify for Europe.
Zubimendi's exit will also mark an end of an era, and Kubo has seemingly emerged as another candidate to move to the Premier League.
Kubo has enjoyed an productive three-year stint at his current team, contributing 23 goals and 18 assists from his 137 appearances in all competitions.
On the flip side, any interested suitors need to decide whether they are willing to activate his €60m (£50.36m) or negotiate a lower fee.
Given the money that will be generated through Zubimendi's sale, Real Sociedad officials may take a firm stance over Kubo's future.
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Would Kubo become first choice at Arsenal or Liverpool?
Although the 23-year-old has largely impressed during his stint at his current club, he did not chip in with a single assist in 35 La Liga appearances during 2024-25.
When Arsenal and Liverpool already have Bukayo Saka and Mohamed Salah in the right-wing position, he would inevitably become backup for that position.
His versatility makes him an option on the left, as a number 10 or as a false nine, but the best form of his career has come from the right.
Darren Plant
