Podcast Summary: The Athletic FC Podcast – "Ornstein Transfer Latest: What Will Arsenal Do This Summer?"

Release Date: June 11, 2025
Hosts: Ayo Akinwalere, David Ornstein, Duncan Alexander

Introduction

In this episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, host Ayo Akinwalere delves deep into Arsenal's summer transfer strategies, focusing primarily on their pursuit of Real Sociedad's midfielder, Martin Zubimendi. Joined by David Ornstein, The Athletic’s football correspondent, and Duncan Alexander, data and tactics editor, the trio navigates through the complexities of Arsenal's transfer dealings amidst a dynamic and competitive transfer window.

Arsenal’s Pursuit of Martin Zubimendi

Ayo Akinwalere kicks off the discussion by highlighting Arsenal's long-standing interest in Martin Zubimendi, a move that has been in the works for over two years. He states:

"Arsenal regard this situation as done and even signed. They're expecting Martin Zubimendi to hook up with them for the start of pre-season and they're now in the process of completing this transfer."
[02:16]

Despite rumors and interest from giants like Liverpool and Real Madrid, Arsenal has maintained consistent efforts to secure Zubimendi, driven by manager Mikel Arteta’s vision of strengthening the midfield.

Duncan Alexander provides tactical insights into Zubimendi's role:

"He will bring some solidity... he's the sort of player that comes into a side and just kind of makes everyone look better."
[04:25]

Zubimendi is expected to play a Thomas Partey-like role, adding depth and versatility to Arsenal's midfield, enabling key players like Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice to enhance their performances.

Thomas Partey’s Contract Situation

The conversation shifts to Thomas Partey's uncertain contract situation. Ayo reveals:

"With his contract extension expiring this summer, it leaves it open to uncertainty over whether that agreement will be reached or indeed he will depart."
[05:37]

Should Partey leave, Arsenal would need to explore the transfer market to fill the void, despite Zubimendi’s arrival. Duncan adds:

"It'll allow Declan Rice maybe to play on the right a bit more... and you probably see a performance increase from a lot of other players."
[06:34]

Kepa Arrizabalaga’s Move to Arsenal

One of the standout transfer news is Arsenal's acquisition of Kepa Arrizabalaga. Ayo explains:

"Arsenal would have been analyzing their options for a second-choice goalkeeper with Neto returning to Bournemouth... they believe that he has agreed to join Arsenal."
[07:47]

Duncan assesses the tactical implications:

"He is a good goalkeeper... if he's willing to become a nominal second-choice keeper, I think it's an absolute coup."
[09:30]

Kepa’s addition aims to bolster Arsenal’s goalkeeping options, providing healthy competition for David Raya and ensuring depth in a critical position.

Other Arsenal Transfer Targets

The panel discusses Arsenal’s ongoing search for a reliable striker, highlighting targets like Benjamin Sesko and Victor Gjokares. Ayo emphasizes the complexity of securing a top-tier number nine:

"These things are not as simple maybe as we in the public and the media might think or want to imagine. And they've got to get this right."
[14:21]

The conversation also touches on potential wide player acquisitions to complement stars like Bukayo Saka, with names like Nico Williams and Rodrigo being mentioned as possible fits to enhance Arsenal's attacking dynamics.

Manchester United’s Transfer Activities

Shifting focus to other Premier League giants, Ayo and David discuss Manchester United’s efforts to sign Umbuella from Brentford:

"Umbuella... Manchester United have made an opening offer that valued Umbuella at 45 million plus 10 million in add-ons which Brentford rejected."
[24:11]

Ayo elaborates on United's financial positioning and their strategy to balance multiple significant transfers within their budget constraints, indicating a busy transfer window at Old Trafford.

Liverpool’s Transfer Updates

The podcast also covers Liverpool’s aggressive pursuit of Florian Wirtz from Bayern Leverkusen:

"Every expectation is that this will be completed. It's on track."
[27:48]

Duncan highlights the significance of Wirtz’s potential move:

"If this one goes through, wow, what a player Liverpool have got."
[27:48]

Additionally, Jason Kirk’s potential signing is discussed, with Ayo noting:

"Kirk has remained their top priority for a left-back, and negotiations with Bournemouth are ongoing."
[30:14]

The team also debates the implications of other possible transfers, including Darwin Nunes and Luis Diaz, assessing how these moves could reshape Liverpool’s squad dynamics.

Conclusion

As the transfer window progresses, Ayo Akinwalere, David Ornstein, and Duncan Alexander provide a comprehensive overview of the major moves and potential shifts within top Premier League clubs. From Arsenal’s strategic acquisitions to the ambitious endeavors of Manchester United and Liverpool, the episode encapsulates the high-stakes environment of summer transfers, offering listeners in-depth analysis and expert opinions on what lies ahead for these football giants.

Notable Quotes:

• Ayo Akinwalere on Arsenal's approach to Zubimendi:

  "Arsenal regard this situation as done and even signed. They're expecting Martin Zubimendi to hook up with them for the start of pre-season."
  [02:16]

• Duncan Alexander on Zubimendi’s impact:

  "He will bring some solidity... he's the sort of player that comes into a side and just kind of makes everyone look better."
  [04:25]

• Ayo Akinwalere on the complexity of securing a striker:

  "These things are not as simple maybe as we in the public and the media might think or want to imagine. And they've got to get this right."
  [14:21]

• Duncan Alexander on Kepa’s role:

  "If he's willing to become a nominal second-choice keeper, I think it's an absolute coup."
  [09:30]

For those eager to stay updated on the latest football transfers and in-depth analyses, The Athletic FC Podcast remains an indispensable source, offering expert insights and comprehensive coverage of the ever-evolving football landscape.