Muhyiddin denies allegations of a PAS plot to oust him as leader of Perikatan, with Hadi, PAS president, publicly supporting his leadership.
**Arsenal Bolster Midfield with Martín Zubimendi Signing**
In a significant move to bolster their midfield options, Arsenal have completed the signing of Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad for a reported **£51 million (approximately €70 million)**. The fee, which is higher than Zubimendi's €60 million release clause, was agreed to be paid in installments rather than a lump sum.
The deal, one of the joint-highest transfer fees in Real Sociedad’s history, equals the fee paid for Alexander Isak by Newcastle[1][2][3]. Zubimendi, who spent 10 years at Real Sociedad, made 236 appearances in all competitions for the club.
Zubimendi, a Spanish international who has played 19 times for his country, joins Arsenal following the departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, played a significant role in convincing Zubimendi to join the club, and the midfielder will reunite at Arsenal with former teammates Mikel Merino and Martin Odegaard[1][2][4].
Zubimendi, who was previously a transfer target for Liverpool and Real Madrid, stated that the move to Arsenal was the one he was looking for. He believes Arsenal's style of play is a good fit for him. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes Zubimendi has the attributes to be a key player for Arsenal.
Arsenal's signing of Zubimendi opens up a more attacking midfield role for Declan Rice. The Gunners are also expected to complete the signing of Christian Norgaard from Brentford. RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres are reportedly the two leading candidates to fill Arsenal's need for a new number nine, as the club struggled without a natural striker for much of last season due to long-term injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus[5].
Martin Odegaard remains Arsenal's captain. With the addition of Zubimendi, Arsenal are seeking to improve on their three consecutive second-placed Premier League finishes and challenge for the title next season.
[1] BBC Sport - Arsenal sign Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad [2] ESPN - Arsenal sign Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad [3] Sky Sports - Arsenal sign Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad [4] The Guardian - Arsenal sign Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad [5] The Athletic - Arsenal's search for a new striker continues
- The Premier League could witness an exciting new addition to sports news, as Arsenal's signing of Martin Zubimendi, a Spanish international, is expected to enhance their midfield.
- Zubimendi's transfer to Arsenal signals a significant move in European leagues, especially given his previous interest from top clubs like Real Madrid and Liverpool.
- Arsenal fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming football season, with the arrival of Zubimendi, who could play a crucial role in their challenge for the Premier League title.