Arsenal eye €45m move for Real Sociedad star Kubo

Arsenal are preparing a bid of around €45 million for Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo, according to a report from Fichajes. The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the standout attacking players in La Liga and is seen as a serious option to bolster Mikel Arteta’s squad in January.

The Japanese international carries a release clause of €60 million, which complicates negotiations and gives the Basque club significant leverage. Real Sociedad view Kubo as a vital figure in their ambitions both domestically and in Europe, but Arsenal’s intent is clear.

Last season Kubo produced seven goals and five assists in 35 matches, performances that confirmed his value to Sociedad’s system. “My objective has always been to grow in Europe and test myself against the best,” Kubo said recently when asked about his long-term ambitions.

Why Arsenal want attacking depth

Arsenal remain well placed in both the Premier League and Champions League but are conscious of the physical and tactical demands of the campaign. Mikel Arteta is seeking greater variety in his front line, particularly in wide positions.

Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli continue to flourish, yet the manager wants more unpredictability and competition for places. Opta data shows that Kubo averaged 2.1 successful dribbles per match in La Liga last term, ranking him among the most effective wingers in Spain. That ability to beat defenders would offer a new dimension for Arsenal’s attack.

Real Sociedad are reluctant to lose their key forward midway through the season. Any sale in January would seriously damage their chances of competing for a European place and maintaining their presence near the top of La Liga.

However, Arsenal’s financial strength gives them the resources to make a persuasive offer. “Arsenal have set their sights on Takefusa Kubo, currently a key figure at Real Sociedad, with the intention of making an offer close to €45 million in the winter market,” the report from Fichajes stated.

Negotiations are likely to be complex, with Real Sociedad insisting on the full release clause if they are to sanction a departure. Arsenal must weigh up whether to meet those demands or seek alternative options.

Kubo is thought to be open to the idea of joining Arsenal, aware of the opportunity to compete in one of Europe’s most demanding leagues. The presence of international stars such as Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice would offer him the environment to continue developing at the highest level.

The former Real Madrid player has never hidden his ambition to take the next step in his career. “My objective has always been to grow in Europe and test myself against the best,” he told Spanish media. A move to London would represent exactly that.

The outcome of this pursuit could define Arsenal’s winter window. Securing Kubo would not only strengthen their immediate prospects but also underline the club’s determination to invest in elite talent to challenge for trophies across all competitions.

The team already has quality wide players in Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, but depth has been an issue in recent seasons. Injuries or fatigue to either of those two often leave the side short of creativity on the flanks, particularly when facing compact defences in the Premier League.

Kubo brings flair and unpredictability, qualities Arsenal sometimes lack when teams set up deep at the Emirates. His dribbling statistics speak for themselves, and at 23 he still has years of development ahead. The thought of him combining with Ødegaard, Rice and the existing front line is appealing.

There is, of course, caution about the price tag. Spending close to €45 million, or even triggering the €60 million release clause, would be a significant outlay. Fans want reinforcements but also recognise the need for balanced spending. That said, this is a player who has proven himself in La Liga and on the European stage with Real Sociedad, and it feels like a step up that matches Arsenal’s ambition.

Ultimately, most supporters would welcome Kubo’s arrival. It signals that Arsenal are serious about competing for titles, not just in England but in Europe. If the deal can be done in January, it could provide the spark that pushes the club closer to long-awaited silverware.