According to reports coming out of the Emirates Stadium in England, Oleksandr Zinchenko is expected to complete a move to Arsenal from Manchester City.
The Ukraine international has previously been resistant to leaving the Etihad Stadium but is likely to bring a close to his six-year stay. The 25-year-old is hoping for more permanent game time after making just 15 appearances as City won the Premier League last season.
Report by Sportsmail had revealed Arsenal’s interest in May and he is reported to be valued at around £35m by City. The two clubs are thrashing out a deal, with hope finances are agreed over the coming days. Mikel Arteta is keen to bring in Zinchenko, capable of playing at left back and in midfield, for additional versatility within the squad as they hunt for a return to the Champions League.
The pair enjoyed a strong relationship when Arteta was Pep Guardiola’s assistant in the northwest and Zinchenko’s profile has grown over recent seasons. City have a history of not standing in the way of players who want to look elsewhere for the guarantee of more games should they receive an acceptable bid.
Raheem Sterling has been this summer’s highest profile departure after sealing a £50m switch to Chelsea. Nathan Ake was also open to the idea of joining Thomas Tuchel’s side but Chelsea would not match City’s valuation. Guardiola is pleased to retain Ake’s services in a stellar line up of centre halves.
Zinchenko though is set to be reunited with Gabriel Jesus, who has been undoing pre-season with the Gunners after a £45m transfer was agreed earlier in the transfer window. City have remained tight-lipped on new signings, with Marc Cucarella a target, although Brighton value the full back at £50m.
