In a stunning eleventh-hour twist that has rocked the European transfer market, Real Madrid have officially hijacked Martín Zubimendi’s almost-complete move to Arsenal, snatching the talented Spanish midfielder from right under the Gunners’ nose.
For weeks, Arsenal were reportedly in advanced talks with the Real Sociedad star. Multiple sources indicated that the deal was 99% done, with Zubimendi poised to join Mikel Arteta’s side at the Emirates in what was expected to be a statement signing for the North London club.
Personal terms had allegedly been agreed upon, and Arsenal fans were already celebrating the acquisition of one of Spain’s most promising midfielders — a player viewed as a long-term solution in the center of the pitch and an ideal partner for Declan Rice. The announcement was said to be imminent.
But then came the twist.
With just hours before final confirmation, Real Madrid swooped in. Club president Florentino Pérez personally authorized a last-minute move, activating Zubimendi’s release clause and offering a package both financially and professionally irresistible to the player. Within minutes, the midfielder was on a private flight to Madrid, and the news quickly spread like wildfire.
According to reports, the decision was driven by Madrid’s desire to add depth and youth to their midfield rotation, especially following the anticipated gradual departure of veterans like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos. Zubimendi, already well-versed in La Liga competition and known for his composure, vision, and intelligence, fits seamlessly into the new generation forming at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Sources close to Arsenal claim that manager Mikel Arteta was furious upon learning of the hijack. Having personally spoken with Zubimendi and helped shape the project around him, Arteta is said to feel betrayed and blindsided by both the player’s late change of heart and Real Madrid’s aggressive intervention.
One insider was quoted as saying: “Arteta had already started drawing tactical setups with Zubimendi in the squad. This isn’t just a loss — it’s a strategic blow.”
The backlash among Arsenal fans has been swift and sharp. While some blame Zubimendi for backing out of a verbal commitment, others point fingers at the club’s inability to seal the deal quickly enough. Meanwhile, Real Madrid supporters are hailing the move as another masterclass by Pérez and a sign that the club remains unmatched when it comes to pulling off last-minute stunners.
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 eventually become a key figure in Madrid’s next golden era.
The transfer window still has weeks left, but with this blockbuster twist, the message is clear: in football, nothing is done until it’s signed — and no one moves faster than Real Madrid.
