Arsenal's new £51m signing Martín Zubimendi did not just walk into north London this summer. His arrival was the result of a quietly executed, two-year transfer plan that also delivered Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
The Gunners agreed a rare dual arrangement with the Spanish club last summer. They triggered Merino's release clause in 2024 and Zubimendi's one year later.
The clever structure helped spread Arsenal's financial outlay, allowed Thomas Partey's contract to run its course, and gave Sociedad time to replace two of their most influential players. Zubimendi, meanwhile, remained to captain his boyhood side for one final season.