Fabrizio Romano provides major update on Martin Zubimendi after claims Real Madrid will 'hijack' Arsenal's deal

Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on the future of Martin Zubimendi amid reports that Real Madrid could 'hijack' Arsenal's move for the Real Sociedad midfielder.

Zubimendi has been linked with the Gunners since the end of the January transfer window as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his midfield options.

The 26-year-old has a £51 million release clause contained in his Sociedad contract, with Arsenal said to be willing to trigger it.

Zubimendi turned down a move to Liverpool last summer, citing his desire to stay in Spain.

On Sunday, Spanish outlet AS reported that the Spaniard, who won Euro 2024, had become a key transfer target for Real Madrid and their new manager Xabi Alonso.

It is claimed that Real are preparing a 'final push' for the midfielder, and that the club believe he is the best option currently available on the transfer market.

It is also said that Alonso, who previously worked with Zubimendi when he was in charge of Sociedad's B team, has been 'clear' that he is the player he wants to add to his squad.

Zubimendi previously described Alonso as his 'idol', which could be another factor in his decision over his next club.

Romano has now provided clarity over the situation - and it's good news for Arsenal fans.

Speaking on his official YouTube channel, Romano explained: "We have many questions, we have many stories, and I respect all the sources on this story, because obviously until the deals are official, you can try until the very end.

"From Spain, that is what they guarantee Real Madrid are trying to do.

"Until the deals are signed, clubs can try to enter and hijack until the very final moments.

"But my understanding on this story is that Martin Zubimendi has agreed on absolutely everything to become a new Arsenal player.

"There is an agreement with the club since a long time ago. I already said a few months ago the 'here we go', because from what I heard, Zubimendi accepted everything Arsenal offered.

"He already spoke to Mikel Arteta, he wanted to wait until the formal steps to respect Real Sociedad until the end of the season.

"The deal is agreed. They've already exchanged everything, in terms of documents. It's just about the medical, put pen to paper, take the pictures, and then Zubimendi will become an Arsenal player."

He did add a word of caution to Gunners supporters, however, adding: "If Real Madrid or any other clubs will be able to change this story while the documents are ready, in football like so many things... never say never.

"But Arsenal are convinced he will be their player this summer."