It’s happening again.

Arsenal are getting ready to wrap up another promising season with nothing to show for it.

After going head-to-head with Manchester City last season, the Gunners have now slipped behind a new rival — Arne Slot’s Liverpool.

Arsenal have played good football under Mikel Arteta.

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But just like the last two campaigns, they’re expected to finish second again.

Last season it was Pep Guardiola who stopped them.

This time, it’s Slot who trumps the Spaniard.

So, it’s clear why the club is already planning ahead.

Arsenal need more quality and leadership in the squad.

They need players who can deliver in big moments.

And they just might have found one — a player who’s been on Liverpool’s radar for over a year.

Arsenal have agreed a deal to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Spanish international has been a top target for both Arsenal and Liverpool, but the Gunners have now moved ahead.

Speaking on the GIVEMESPORT Market Madness podcast in March, Romano gave an update on the situation.

“The conversation is ongoing for Zubimendi and Arsenal.

Then we know what happened one year ago with Liverpool, he had a possibility to go to Liverpool, and he decided to stay at Real Sociedad.”

Arne Slot is a big admirer of Zubimendi.

He had tried to bring him to Anfield, but the player chose to remain in Spain at the time.

This time, things are different.

Now this morning, Romano gave the famous “here we go” on X:
“Arsenal agree deal to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, here we go!

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Zubimendi has now verbally agreed to sign a long term deal… so formal steps must follow soon with Arsenal to trigger €60m clause.
Zubi, ready to become the first signing of the new season.”

Zubimendi rejected Liverpool in the past.

Now, Arsenal look set to get their man.

This is one battle off the pitch that Arteta seems to have won.

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