According to David Ornstein, Ligue 1 side Marseille are exploring a permanent deal for Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko, with talks progressing but salary demands proving complicated.
The 28-year-old Ukraine international has fallen down the pecking order at Arsenal following the arrivals of Riccardo Calafiori and academy talent Lewis-Skelly, leaving his future at the Emirates in doubt.
Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi is pushing for a new left-back capable of inverting into midfield during possession — a tactical role Zinchenko has long excelled at under Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta.
Ornstein on the Situation
“Marseille working on deal to sign Oleksandr Zinchenko from Arsenal. Exploring permanent move but complicated by Ukraine international’s salary.” — David Ornstein
For Arsenal, the sale would reduce wage commitments and provide clarity on squad roles, while for Marseille, finding a financial solution is key.
Why De Zerbi Wants Zinchenko
At Marseille, De Zerbi’s system demands a left-back who can step inside, dictate play, and break pressing lines — exactly the profile Zinchenko offers. His Champions League experience and tactical discipline are also seen as vital for a side looking to re-establish themselves among France’s elite.
Oleksandr Zinchenko — 2024/25 Season Stats (Arsenal, Premier League)
| Stat (2024/25) | Zinchenko |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 22 |
| Starts | 15 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Pass Accuracy | 88% |
source: sofascore & club data – 2024/25
While still technically assured, Zinchenko’s reduced involvement underlines why Arsenal are now ready to move him on.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William says Zinchenko fits De Zerbi perfectly:
“Zinchenko is tailor-made for De Zerbi’s football. He’s comfortable in central spaces, technically secure, and can orchestrate play from deep. The sticking point is his salary — Arsenal put him on a top-tier contract, and Marseille will need either a wage adjustment or Arsenal’s help to make it work.”
He added: “For Arsenal, moving Zinchenko now makes sense. Calafiori and Kelly are the future, and Zinchenko’s role has diminished. It’s a case of the right player, wrong timing.”
Key Insights
- Marseille in talks with Arsenal for Zinchenko.
- Deal complicated by high salary demands.
- Zinchenko played 22 games, 2 assists, 88% pass accuracy in 2024/25.
- Arsenal already have Calafiori and Lewis-Skelly covering left-back.
- Fenerbahçe interest collapsed after Mourinho’s exit.
What’s Next for Zinchenko?
Talks will continue this week as Marseille attempt to structure a deal. A permanent move is preferred, but compromises on salary or creative clauses may be needed.
For Arsenal, the priority is clearing the wage bill and avoiding a situation where Zinchenko becomes a frustrated squad player. With De Zerbi pushing hard, the expectation is that a breakthrough could arrive before deadline day.
Should Arsenal cut their losses on Zinchenko — or hold out until Marseille meet his full salary demands?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 29 Aug 2025 13:42
He will only leave if his wage is covered
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *