Following a somewhat slow start to the summer transfer period, Arsenal Football Club appears to be nearing completion on two new signings.
The acquisition of Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for a modest £5 million might not ignite widespread excitement, given his likely role as backup to David Raya. Nevertheless, it represents a strategically important move.
This relatively small expenditure for Kepa frees up essential funds for Arsenal to invest in other positions, with a particular focus on strengthening their attacking options.
Another expected arrival is Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. This transfer, valued at over £50 million, is certainly a more anticipated addition. However, he may not be the only new face joining the midfield ranks.
Arsenal Pursuing Another Midfielder After Zubimendi
It`s worth recalling that last summer, Zubimendi seemed destined for Liverpool. That move ultimately did not materialise. It remains unknown whether he has any regrets, particularly considering Arne Slot`s subsequent league title success with the Anfield side.
Now, a year on, Zubimendi is indeed set to move to England, though he will be wearing the red of Arsenal rather than Liverpool.
Arsenal`s interest in the Spain international dates back to last January when they first indicated a willingness to trigger his £51 million release clause at Real Sociedad. Since then, an agreement has been reached allowing Arsenal to pay slightly more than the clause amount, but crucially, in instalments.
Reports indicated that Zubimendi was in London over the weekend to finalise the administrative aspects of his transfer.
Intriguingly, he could potentially be joined in Arsenal`s midfield next season by Christian Norgaard from Brentford. This is according to various sources, notably David Ornstein from The Athletic.
Ornstein reported on Wednesday afternoon that Arsenal was “exploring” a deal for the Danish player and had submitted an initial bid thought to be around €11 million (£9 million).
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano corroborated these reports, stating on social media that the 31-year-old “wants to join Arsenal” this summer and has already reached an agreement on personal terms with the club.
More recently, Sami Mokbel of BBC Sport reported that a final agreement for Norgaard could be settled at around £15 million, including potential add-ons. The transfer seems to be progressing rapidly, with Ornstein later reporting on Wednesday evening that the Gunners are now in the process of “finalising” the deal and arranging a medical examination for the player.
Why Norgaard Could Be a Smart Signing for Arsenal
With Jorginho having departed the Emirates Stadium on a free transfer to Flamengo and Thomas Partey`s future increasingly uncertain as he is unlikely to sign a new contract, Arsenal is in need of two central midfielders.
Zubimendi addresses one of these requirements. While the move for Norgaard might be somewhat surprising, it appears to make a lot of strategic sense.
Much like the Kepa signing, Arsenal would not be spending a significant amount on Norgaard, potentially around £15 million. This financial approach helps preserve their budget for what is likely their top priority this summer: securing a new primary striker.
What qualities could Norgaard bring to Mikel Arteta`s midfield? Like the departing Jorginho and Partey, he offers valuable experience. Crucially, he is already well-accustomed to playing in England, having been with Brentford for a considerable time.
He joined the Bees back in 2019 and has since accumulated 196 appearances for the club, including 122 matches in the Premier League.
During the 2024/25 top-flight campaign, he featured 34 times, scoring five goals and providing four assists.
As a defensive midfielder who also contributes goals and assists, there are compelling reasons to believe that Arteta could be bringing in a player with a profile similar to Declan Rice, albeit with more experience.
