Arsenal are reportedly prepared to negotiate directly with Real Sociedad for the services of Martin Zubimendi.
The midfielder is expected to rock up at the Emirates over the summer, although Gunners supporters are containing their excitement until the deal is announced.
Mikel Arteta's men are in the market for a new set of stars after missing out on the Premier League title for a third successive season under the tutelage of the Spaniard.
Looking to ensure a respectable second-placed finish before the end of the term, the Gunners shared the spoils at the home of champions Liverpool last time out.
Arsenal are directly behind the first-placed Reds in the Premier League standings, just two points ahead of a resurgent Newcastle United in third.
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Arsenal to 'go through front door' for Zubimendi
According to The Mirror, Arsenal have decided on their transfer strategy surrounding a deal for Zubimendi ahead of the summer trading point.
The report claims that the Gunners are keen to bypass the £51m release clause in the midfielder's contract in order to bag themselves a better deal.
If Arsenal were to trigger the release clause, they would have to pay the £51m up front to La Liga to buy Zubimendi out of his Real Sociedad contract.
By 'going through the front door' and discussing the deal with the selling club directly, Arteta's side could spread the payments out more favourably.
Arne Slot's Liverpool were known to be keen on Zubimendi during the last summer transfer window, with the Euro 2024 winner rejecting a switch to Anfield.
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Arsenal's summer plans
Playing the likes of Mikel Merino and Kai Havertz at the top of the pitch this season, Arsenal are in need of a top-class striker to boost their title chances.
Sporting Lisbon marksman Viktor Gyokeres is linked to the Emirates club, with the Swede heading towards a return to England following spells at Brighton & Hove Albion, Swansea City and Coventry.
Zubimendi would slot straight into the Arsenal midfield next season, working alongside the likes of Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard in the engine room.
Carter White
