Arsenal
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AC Milan have opened discussions with Arsenal over a possible transfer for Oleksandr Zinchenko, as the Serie A giants prepare for life without star left-back Theo Hernandez, according toHand of Arsenal.
The Rossoneri are bracing for Hernandez’s likely departure to Atletico Madrid, with the Frenchman reportedly turning down a contract extension in favour of a return to Spain. As a result, Milan have identified Zinchenko as a key candidate to fill the void.
Zinchenko, 28, endured a challenging 2024/25 campaign at Arsenal, featuring in just five Premier League matches amid persistent injury issues and growing competition from Myles Lewis-Skelly and Riccardo Calafiori. With his contract set to expire in 2026, new Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has reportedly made it clear that only a “respectable offer” will prompt the club to sanction a sale, despite interest from two other unnamed clubs.
Milan’s interest comes as newly reappointed manager Massimiliano Allegri looks to overhaul the squad following a disappointing eighth-place finish in Serie A. Zinchenko’s versatility, able to operate as a left-back, wing-back, or central midfielder fits well with Allegri’s tactical plans, and his experience at the top level is seen as a valuable asset.
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The Ukrainian international, who boasts four Premier League titles with Manchester City and 91 appearances for Arsenal, would bring leadership and technical quality to Milan’s backline. However, his reported £150,000-per-week wages present a stumbling block for the Italian club, who are managing a restricted budget after a turbulent season.
Oleksandr Zinchenko - AC Milan
AC Milan are interested in Oleksandr Zinchenko this summer (Image credit: Getty Images)
Arsenal are believed to value Zinchenko between €10 million and €15 million, although some reports suggest they could accept a fee as low as €5 million due to his diminished role. Talks are still at an early stage, with Sky Italy andGazzetta dello Sport reporting that Milan’s sporting director Igli Tare admires Zinchenko’s mentality and adaptability but has yet to finalise terms on salary or transfer fee.
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Zinchenko is not Milan’s only target at the Emirates. The Rossoneri are also monitoring Polish defender Jakub Kiwior as they consider reinforcements amid the potential departure of Malick Thiaw to Bayer Leverkusen. The double interest highlights Milan’s intention to tap into Arsenal’s squad depth to fuel their rebuild with proven Premier League talent.
While Zinchenko has not formally pushed for a move, a switch to Serie A could offer a fresh start after slipping down the pecking order in Mikel Arteta’s plans. His technical strengths and attacking contribution from the left flank could make him an ideal fit in Allegri’s reshaped AC Milan side, though any deal may hinge on the Ukrainian accepting a reduced salary.
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