Arsenal Officially Unveil Martin Zubimendi as New Signing with Jersey Number Announcement

Arsenal have put an end to prolonged transfer rumors by officially confirming the signing of Martín Zubimendi in a transaction valued at nearly £60 million ($81.9 million).

The North London club had been consistently connected with the ex-Real Sociedad playmaker. Multiple media outlets had continuously suggested that an agreement was already finalized, only for Zubimendi to openly deny such assertions.

Competition from Real Madrid made the transfer more complex, which has now been officially confirmed on Sunday, July 6.

"Martín is a footballer who will contribute tremendous quality and tactical awareness to our squad," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed enthusiastically about the midfielder's signing. "He will integrate seamlessly and possesses all the qualities to become a crucial player for us.

"The level he has maintained consistently over recent seasons for both his club and national team is precisely why we are thrilled to have him join us. We all extend our welcome to Martín and his family to the club."

Zubimendi will don the No. 36 jersey for Arsenal. The Spanish international had previously worn No. 4 for La Real during the last three campaigns, but Ben White currently holds that number. Zubimendi might have chosen No. 3, which he also wore during his stint in San Sebastián after Kieran Tierney's summer exit, but instead selected the number he wore when making his first-team debut for Real Sociedad six years prior.

Throughout his tenure fulfilling his childhood ambition at his hometown club, Zubimendi established himself as one of football's most skilled defensive midfielders. A humble record of nine goals and six assists over 180 La Liga matches suggests his understated approach, but Zubimendi's abilities are more nuanced.

As Arsenal highlighted in a well-received announcement video created in partnership with drummer Femi Koleoso, Zubimendi is the player who dictates the rhythm of a game.