Arsenal are hoping that Mikel Arteta’s influence will help them land the signature of Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Writing in his column for GiveMeSport, Romano said that Arteta’s involvement could be crucial as it was when Declan Rice joined from West Ham at the start of last season:

“Mikel Arteta is heavily involved in the process to guarantee about the project and to show Zubimendi how he would be a key part of their plan for the present and future. Arteta and Zubimendi were born in the same city and their connection would be a crucial part of the story.”

“It’s not the first time Arteta has got involved in negotiations, as he did the same to get the green light from Declan Rice in a big race with several clubs two years ago…”

“The Gunners feel Arteta’s involvement can make the difference in order to get it done in the summer. Patience and hard work in order to get there for a potential fantastic signing.”

There is no “here we go” from Romano yet

Although initial reports suggested that Zubimendi’s summer switch to the Emirates was all but done, that is not believed to be the case.

Romano claims no documents have been signed yet and there is some caution surrounding the deal considering the player has already U-turned on leaving Real Sociedad once before.

Liverpool believed they had the transfer in the bag last August, only for Zubimendi to back out at the last moment.

Arsenal don’t need to negotiate with his club

The reason why the agreement with the player is so important is because the transfer fee is not an issue. The Gunners know they will have to pay Zubimendi’s release clause to get him out of his current club.

It will cost €60m (£51m) to sign the 25-year-old, and the amount will have to be paid in full upfront.

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