Arsenal Agree January Loan Move for Oleksandr Zinchenko to Ajax

Arsenal agreed to loan Oleksandr Zinchenko to Ajax for the remainder of the 2025–26 season, finalising their first outgoing move of the January transfer window.

Arsenal have reached an agreement to loan Oleksandr Zinchenko to Ajax for the remainder of the 2025–26 season, with the Dutch giants stepping in as the Ukraine international looks for regular football ahead of his contract expiry.

According to De Telegraaf, the deal has been agreed in principle, with Ajax set to cover Zinchenko’s wages for the six-month loan. The 29-year-old is open to the move, viewing it as a chance to revive his form after a frustrating spell of limited minutes.

Buy Arsenal's 2025–26 Home Kit through the ArsenalTalks Shop

Click this link to buy the new 2025–26 Arsenal home kit through our ArsenalTalks Shop.

Since joining Arsenal from Manchester City in a £30 million deal in 2022, Zinchenko has played an important role in Mikel Arteta’s tactical evolution, operating both as an inverted left-back and a midfield option.

However, increased competition, tactical adjustments, and recurring injury setbacks have seen him slip down the pecking order this season. With his contract set to expire in the summer, Arsenal have opted to sanction a loan rather than allow the situation to stagnate.

Nottingham Forest Loan Cut Short

Zinchenko spent the first half of the campaign on loan at Nottingham Forest but struggled to establish momentum. He made just ten appearances across all competitions, with injuries and instability limiting his impact.

Forest manager Sean Dyche admitted the plan had failed, confirming he discussed the player’s role and availability before mutually terminating the loan. Ajax immediately seized the opportunity.

The Dutch club identified Zinchenko’s experience as the perfect short-term solution in their push for European qualification. His versatility, leadership, and elite pedigree—including four Premier League titles with Manchester City—convinced Ajax to act.

Zinchenko also brings familiarity with Dutch football, having spent the 2016–17 season at PSV Eindhoven. Ajax are already exploring whether a longer-term deal could extend beyond the summer.

Arsenal Clear Space for January Business

Arsenal completed their first outgoing deal of the January window, freeing squad space and wages as Mikel Arteta weighs reinforcements for the title run-in.

Zinchenko acknowledged uncertainty about his future but thanked Forest supporters for their backing during his brief spell. With paperwork advancing and a medical scheduled, the move is set to be finalized before the transfer deadline.

Want more Arsenal updates? Visit our homepage.