According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal are interested in signing Oleksandr Zinchenko, after he won the Premier League with Manchester City.
What’s the story?
Well, the 25-year-old lifted his fourth Premier League title on Sunday, but he could now leave the Etihad Stadium.
Arsenal are interested in taking Gabriel Jesus from Pep Guardiola, although they are now keen on a double raid involving Zinchenko.
The Daily Mail believe Mikel Arteta has a great relationship with the left-back, from his days working as an assistant to Guardiola in Manchester.
It is said that the Citizens will not stand in the way of those who want to leave, providing the money on offer is acceptable.
Interestingly, the Daily Mail mention that Arsenal view Zinchenko primarily as someone who could bolster their midfield, while filling in at left-back occasionally.
However, the Ukrainian made 26 appearances at left-back this season, but only one in midfield, so we would’ve imagined that to be the other way around.
In 28 appearances across all competitions this season, Zinchenko provided five assists for Manchester City.
It was also said that Newcastle were keen on a deal in January.
Wolves and West Ham were also interested in 2021.
Arsenal may struggle to convince Oleksandr Zinchenko
In our view, the Gunners may struggle to lure Zinchenko away from Manchester.
Why? Well, the Manchester City No.11 was overcome with emotion after winning the Premier League title, and spoke glowingly of the Citizens for their support amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Zinchenko said: “Honestly I want to die for these people, for all this support, because what people gave me and what they have done for me during this toughest period of my life. I am so appreciative and I will never forget this. Never in my life.”
If he’s willing to die for the club, we highly doubt Zinchenko will agitate for a move, should Guardiola express a desire to keep him.
Therefore, Arteta might need some help from Guardiola if he is to complete this deal, or else, we can’t really see it happening.
Nevertheless, be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as anything could happen this summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
