In a shocking last-minute twist that has rocked the European transfer market, Real Madrid have officially hijacked Martín Zubimendi’s almost complete transfer from Arsenal, snatching the talented Spanish midfielder right from under the Gunners’ noses.

For weeks, Arsenal were reported to be in advanced talks with the Real Sociedad star. Several sources indicated that a deal was almost complete, with Zubimendi on the verge of joining Mikel Arteta’s side at the Emirates in what was expected to be a breakthrough signing for the north London club.

Personal terms had reportedly been agreed upon, and Arsenal fans were already celebrating the acquisition of one of Spain’s most promising midfielders, a player considered a long-term solution in midfield and an ideal partner for Declan Rice. An announcement was said to be imminent.

But then came   the twist  .

Just hours after the final confirmation,  Real Madrid pounced on him  . Club president Florentino Pérez personally authorized a last-minute transfer, activating Zubimendi’s release clause and offering an irresistible package, both financially and professionally, for the player. Within minutes, the midfielder was on a private flight to Madrid, and the news spread like wildfire.

The decision was reportedly motivated by Madrid’s desire to add depth and youth to their midfield rotation, especially following the expected gradual departure of veterans such as Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos. Zubimendi, already an expert in La Liga competition and known for his composure, vision, and intelligence, fits perfectly into the new generation developing at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Sources close to Arsenal claim that  manager Mikel Arteta was furious  upon learning of the kidnapping. Having spoken personally with Zubimendi and helped shape the project around him, Arteta feels betrayed and surprised by both the player’s recent change of heart and Real Madrid’s aggressive intervention.

A source close to the club said:  “Arteta had already begun to develop tactics with Zubimendi in the squad. This isn’t just a loss, it’s a strategic blow.”

The reaction from Arsenal fans has been swift and overwhelming. While some blame Zubimendi for breaking a verbal commitment, others point to the club’s inability to close the deal quickly enough. Meanwhile, Real Madrid fans are celebrating the move as another Pérez masterpiece and a sign that the club remains unmatched when it comes to scoring last-minute goals.

As for Zubimendi, the 25-year-old has yet to speak publicly about his decision. However, sources suggest he was heavily influenced by the opportunity to compete in the Champions League at the highest level, play under Carlo Ancelotti, and, in time, become a key figure in Madrid’s next golden era.

There are still weeks to go until the transfer window, but with this spectacular turn of events, the message is clear:  in football, nothing is done until it’s signed, and no one moves faster than Real Madrid  .