Arsenal's significant summer spending spree, which exceeded £250 million, was aimed at one clear objective: ending a 22-year wait for the Premier League title. While the arrival of striker Viktor Gyokeres generated immense hype, it is another, more understated acquisition who has emerged as the potential final piece of Mikel Arteta's championship puzzle.
The Seamless Integration of a Midfield Maestro
In July, Arsenal finalised a deal worth around £55 million to bring Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad to the Emirates Stadium. While the transfer had been anticipated for months, its impact has been immediate and profound. The 26-year-old has slotted into the Gunners' midfield with such effortless grace that he appears to have been a fixture for years, combining elegant distribution with combative defensive work.
His influence was perfectly illustrated during the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Chelsea in January 2026, where he scored a magnificent goal to put Arsenal 3-1 up. It was his fourth goal of the campaign, showcasing an unexpected attacking threat to complement his defensive solidity.
Arteta's 'Phenomenal' Praise
Manager Mikel Arteta was effusive in his praise after that match, drawing direct comparisons to the club's record signing. "Well, I think when we talk about Zubi, it's what else can he do?" Arteta said. "He can do whatever he wants, it's a bit similar to Declan [Rice]'s qualities. We just have to keep unlocking that... he's so good at occupying different spaces, carrying the ball, dribbling, winning duels... I think it's phenomenal, not only the goal but the performance as well."
Arsenal's Best Business Since Rice
There is a compelling argument that Zubimendi is Arsenal's most astute signing since Declan Rice joined from West Ham for £105 million less than three years ago. While Rice has proven to be worth every penny, Zubimendi's impact at nearly half the fee represents outstanding value. His presence has not only bolstered the defensive midfield role but has elevated the performances of those around him, much like Rice and key figures such as Martin Odegaard and Gabriel.
The Spaniard's contribution has been a major factor in Arsenal building the strongest squad since the Arsene Wenger era, maintaining defensive resilience while adding greater potency from set-pieces and in open play.
The Final Piece of the Title Jigsaw?
With Arsenal having finished second in the Premier League three times in recent seasons, the question has been whether they could take the final step to glory. The 2025/26 campaign feels different, and Zubimendi's transformative role in midfield is a central reason why. His seamless adaptation and all-round quality have led some observers to label him not just Arsenal's signing of the season, but potentially the Premier League's.
If the Gunners do finally clinch the title this season, it will be the culmination of a series of smart acquisitions. Yet, it may well be the £55 million spent on the composed Spaniard from San Sebastian that is remembered as the masterstroke that pushed Arteta's team over the line.
