Arsenal are attempting to reshape Oleksandr Zinchenko’s January exit, with negotiations now focused on a permanent transfer rather than a loan move to Ajax.
Mikel Arteta sidelined the Ukraine international earlier this season before allowing him to join Nottingham Forest on a season-long loan late in the summer window. Zinchenko has since featured sparingly, managing just 353 minutes across five Premier League appearances and not playing in the league since December.
Ajax move gathers pace — then stalls
Ajax had identified Zinchenko as a January opportunity and, according to De Telegraaf, initially agreed terms with Arsenal for a loan deal. The Dutch side scheduled a medical for Tuesday, pending the termination of his Nottingham Forest loan.
However, that plan has been delayed.
De Telegraaf journalist Mike Verweij reported that Ajax were expecting Zinchenko to arrive in the Netherlands, but the move was paused as Arsenal sought to alter the structure of the agreement.
Arsenal switch focus to permanent sale
Rather than sanctioning a straight loan, Arsenal are now pushing for a permanent transfer. Zinchenko is in the final year of his contract at the Emirates, and the Gunners are keen to generate income immediately instead of settling for a temporary solution.
Ajax’s original strategy was to bring Zinchenko in on loan and then attempt to secure him on a free transfer in the summer. Arsenal’s change of stance has forced renewed discussions, with talks now centred on agreeing a transfer fee.
No figure has yet been disclosed, but Verweij suggests negotiations are ongoing and that the decision ultimately rests with Arsenal.
Medical delayed, deal still alive
Despite the delay, Ajax remain confident the move will go through. Zinchenko’s medical has been pushed back and is now expected to take place later this week, provided the two clubs can finalise terms for a permanent deal.
For Arsenal, the situation represents a chance to cash in on a player no longer central to Arteta’s plans, while Ajax see Zinchenko as an experienced option capable of operating both at left-back and in midfield.
Key Insights
- Arsenal are negotiating a permanent sale for Oleksandr Zinchenko.
- Ajax initially agreed a loan but are now discussing a transfer fee.
- Zinchenko is in the final year of his Arsenal contract.
- His medical has been delayed but is expected later this week.
- Arsenal prefer a sale over a short-term loan exit.
What’s Next
Talks between Arsenal and Ajax are set to continue over the coming days. If a fee is agreed, Zinchenko is expected to complete his medical and finalise a permanent move before the window progresses much further.
Should Arsenal cash in on Zinchenko now, or would a loan have offered better long-term value?
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