Oleksandr Zinchenko’s time at Arsenal appears to be coming to a close as transfer interest builds.
AC Milan want to sign Zinchenko and have been in London to discuss a possible transfer for the Ukrainian.
The former Manchester City star made a significant impact during the 2022/23 campaign, bringing a winner’s mentality with him from the Etihad as Arsenal made their status as title-challengers known.
Since then, Zinchenko’s role at Arsenal has taken a back seat, securing only five starts in 2024/25, leading to his expected exit.
Oleksandr Zinchenko could reunite with Granit Xhaka
It makes sense for the Gunners to part ways with Zinchenko this summer, as the defender is one of several Arsenal players who have a contract expiring in 2026.
By selling the Ukraine international now, the North Londoners can receive a fee for the 28-year-old, something Milan are hoping to deliver.
Amid transfer links, Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport reported Milan’s plan to sign Zinchenko, with the only stumbling block believed to be his salary, being one of Arsenal’s highest earners.
The developing discussions weren’t the only interesting part of the outlet’s report, as it became clear that Milan are also eyeing a transfer for another player with ties to N5.
Granit Xhaka is of interest to those at the San Siro, with the midfielder’s future at Bayer Leverkusen believed to be uncertain.
An Arsenal return for Xhaka doesn’t appear to be on the cards, as it’s understood that the Switzerland international is charmed by the idea of playing in Italy.
There could, however, be the chance for a North London reunion for Zinchenko and Xhaka, but first, an apology might need to be exchanged.
Zinchenko will want an apology from Xhaka after Arsenal joke
Xhaka is still missed at Arsenal almost two years after his departure to Leverkusen.
The 32-year-old had his fair share of problems in N5, but that didn’t end his love for the club, as he still keeps up with what’s unfolding at the Emirates.
Unfortunately, Zinchenko was the brunt of a joke made by Xhaka in 2023, as the midfielder sent a cheeky message to the Arsenal defender on Instagram.
After Zinchenko posted a post-match message, Xhaka asked, ‘Did you play?’, joking with his former teammate, who did not feature in the match in question.
The Ukrainian might be seeking a light-hearted apology for the Swiss star’s jab, as the pair have the potential to reunite this summer in Milan.
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