Arsenal’s summer transfer business is only just beginning.
A lot of talk heading into the close season was Andrea Berta’s search for a new striker however, there has yet to be a breakthrough in talks for Benjamin Sesko or Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners have had a little more success in their outgoings, Nuno Tavares joined Lazio on a permanent deal, whilst Kieran Tierney and Jorginho departed on free transfers.
Oleksandr Zinchenko is willing to leave Arsenal this summer after finding opportunities limited last season. There is interest from AC Milan and from Premier League duo Fulham and Everton.
Arsenal Insider assesses the impact that Zinchenko’s departure could have on the current Arsenal squad heading into the new campaign.
READ MORE: What Thomas Partey has been doing during Arsenal contract talks could hint at final exit decision
Winners from Oleksandr Zinchenko’s potential Arsenal exit
Myles Lewis-Skelly
Myles Lewis-Skelly’s new Arsenal contract is just reward for an exceptional breakthrough season for the Hale End star.
Lewis-Skelly made the left back position his own and capped a wonderful season with his first England goal at Wembley just minutes into his debut.
The 18-year-old’s importance to the squad continues to grow and should Zinchenko make his expected exit this summer, the young Gunner becomes Mikel Arteta’s premier option to invert from the left back spot.
It’s a big responsibility on young shoulders but Lewis-Skelly has proven he is ready for any challenge thrown at him.
Ethan Nwaneri
Ethan Nwaneri wants to become Arsenal’s number ten and Zinchenko’s departure means he is one step closer to that dream.
The Ukrainian international was used as Martin Odegaard’s replacement in the advanced midfield role on a number of occasions last season and Nwaneri will now be hoping he is next in line.
The 18-year-old certainly has the ability to be the Gunners’ most creative force and just wants the chance to prove it on the big stage.
Max Dowman
Max Dowman is a name that is widely tipped as the next young star to make an impression on the Arsenal first-team and Zinchenko’s exit could open the door for an appearance next season.
Dowman is expected to play in pre-season and join the squad on their tour of the far east, where he will be hoping to make a significant impression on the coaching staff and manager.
Playing in a similar creative role to Nwaneri, the 15-year-old will be hoping to make his mark in some cup competitions before eventually making the step towards league or even Champions League action.
Riccardo Calafiori
Riccardo Calafiori had a mixed first season at the Emirates Stadium. There were plenty of positive signs from the Italian international but the 22-year-old struggled with injuries.
Berta could have sold Calafiori this summer amid interest from Europe however, the Italian has made it clear his future is in North London and will now be looking to kick on next season.
Zinchenko will be a direct rival for a place in the side out of the way and Calafiori can now expect more chances to impress either at left back or at left centre back should Gabriel Magalhaes need further time to recover from hamstring surgery.
Losers from Oleksandr Zinchenko’s potential Arsenal exit
Mikel Arteta
Arteta is under pressure to deliver a trophy next season and losing a versatile player like Zinchenko could come back to haunt him.
The Spaniard was desperate to bring the Ukraine international to the Gunners and after an incredible start to his Arsenal career, Zinchenko’s impact and importance has tailed off.
However, Arteta could lose Thomas Partey this summer and should Zinchenko join him, midfield options suddenly dwindle for the Gunners boss.
He cannot leave himself short in any areas of the pitch come the start of the season and with Arsenal’s tough start to the season, Arteta needs to ensure he has the squad he wants at the end of the window.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
