Martin Zubimendi ranks among the elite in his role as a classic holding midfielder, primarily focused on distribution and defensive duties, and should free up Declan Rice at Arsenal.

Martin Zubimendi, the 26-year-old Spain international, has joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad on a five-year contract for a fee of around €65million (£55.8m; $76.6m). Arsenal will pay more than Zubimendi’s €60million release clause but the compromise means they will be able to pay the fee in installments, rather than as one lump sum.

Arsenal have officially completed the signing of defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.The Gunners opted against triggering Zubimendi’s €60 million release clause in one lump