Picture source: GETTY IMAGE
Oleksandr Zinchenko has lost his place in the starting lineup due to his struggles with form and fitness.
Arsenal have reportedly opened talks regarding the potential departure of Oleksandr Zinchenko amid growing interest from Borussia Dortmund. The Ukrainian left-back, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022, has seen his role diminish due to a combination of injuries and strong competition from emerging talents.
Dortmund, who missed out on Chelsea’s Renato Veiga, who is heading to Juventus on loan, have identified Zinchenko as their top target for the left-back position. The German club is keen to secure his services on loan with an obligation to buy in the summer.
Zinchenko’s reduced playing time has been notable, with the 28-year-old starting in Arsenal’s recent Champions League victory over Dinamo Zagreb but seeing his position usurped by teenage sensation Myles Lewis-Skelly in the Premier League. The return of Riccardo Calafiori from injury has also added depth to Arsenal’s left-back options.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly open to Zinchenko’s departure, provided the financial terms are favorable. The club is looking to recoup a respectable chunk of the £30 million they paid for his services in 2022. Zinchenko’s contract expires in 2026, and there have been no talks over a possible extension.
For Dortmund, Zinchenko’s experience and Premier League pedigree make him an ideal solution to their left-back issues. His versatility to play in midfield, a role he occasionally filled under Guardiola at Manchester City, adds additional tactical flexibility for the Bundesliga side.
Zinchenko’s potential move to Dortmund would mark a new chapter for the player and could provide much-needed stability for the German club during their transitional phase.
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