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.

Martin: Zubimendi is going to be the number six that most thought Rice would be before Arteta saw him as a number eight. Hopefully he frees Martin Odegaard up as well. Sam: It's a very good signing and a crucial one as well.