# Martin Zubimendi transfer and Arsenal involvement > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/martin-zubimendi-transfer-and-arsenal-involvement > Updated: 2026-10-26T11:49:56.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. In late September 2026, reports emerged regarding Arsenal’s interest in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. While some UK media suggested the player had agreed to personal terms, Spanish journalists denied a finalized deal, noting that Zubimendi was still evaluating his options. Discussions centered on a potential £51m buyout fee, with Arsenal potentially proposing a staged payment structure to compete with clubs like Real Madrid or Liverpool. By late October, the narrative shifted from transfer speculation to Zubimendi’s integration into the Arsenal squad. Following a facial injury sustained during a Premier League match against Everton, Zubimendi was expected to start in a Carabao Cup fixture against Fleetwood Town, potentially wearing a protective mask. His involvement became a key tactical consideration for manager Mikel Arteta due to injury concerns surrounding teammate Declan Rice. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-26: Martin Zubimendi expected to start for Arsenal amid Rice injury concerns Martin Zubimendi is expected to start for Arsenal against Fleetwood Town in the Carabao Cup, potentially wearing a protective mask following a facial injury, as doubts remain over Declan Rice's fitness. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/martin-zubimendi-expected-to-start-for-arsenal-amid-rice-injury-concerns ### 2026-09-26: Martin Zubimendi linked to Arsenal amid conflicting transfer reports Conflicting reports surround Arsenal's pursuit of Martin Zubimendi, with Spanish journalists denying a deal is reached despite UK reports of agreed personal terms. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/martin-zubimendi-linked-to-arsenal-amid-conflicting-transfer-reports --- Cite as: Martin Zubimendi transfer and Arsenal involvement. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/martin-zubimendi-transfer-and-arsenal-involvement