'Arsenal to overpay on big-money transfer' - Significant transfer update
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Arsenal are close to signing Martín Zubimendi but may not to pay the £51 million release clause outright, according to David Ornstein.
News broke on 15 January that the Gunners are nearing a deal to sign Zubimendi, with the agreement reportedly "virtually completed" and suggestions that the release clause will be paid [Daily Mail].
The Spaniard was involved in transfer drama last summer with Liverpool, but it seems Mikel Arteta's team have moved to the front of the queue for his signature.
However, Ornstein believes that Arsenal will look to "stagger payments" by opting to “pay a bit more” than the release clause.
He shared an update in a video on X: “The release clause in his contract is €60million euros (£51m). My understanding is that they might look to pay a bit more so they can stagger the payments, and that would allow them to do other business next summer’s transfer window.”
Arsenal need to make sure they also sign a forward
Football Insider Verdict
Arsenal fans are ecstatic about the potential deal to sign one of the most sought-after midfielders in the market.
However, a financial outlay of £51 million in a single payment would be a significant risk, considering the other areas in the squad that require investment.
They have made Alexander Isak their summer priority signing, but a deal would almost certainly break the British transfer record, costing over £115 million.
Ornstein's update provides some level of clarity, as current issues persist with Gabriel Jesus sidelined through injury and Bukayo Saka also out.
A midfielder is definitely needed, with the club set to allow Thomas Partey's contract to expire at the end of the season.
If they do stagger payments, a deal for a forward this January could still be a possibility—even if they ultimately overpay for Zubimendi. However, it remains to be seen whether an exciting forward will arrive to salvage Arteta's season.
In other news, Arsenal are set to step up their efforts to sign in this position before the transfer window ends.
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The post 'Arsenal to overpay on big-money transfer' - Significant transfer update appeared first on Football Insider.
