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AC Milan are reportedly exploring a double swoop for Arsenal defenders Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko as they begin rebuilding under Massimiliano Allegri.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Serie A side held talks with Arsenal officials in London this week, discussing both players in a meeting led by a Milan emissary.
Zinchenko has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Theo Hernandez at left-back, with the France international reportedly in negotiations over a move to Atletico Madrid.
The Ukraine international has slipped down the pecking order at Arsenal after a frustrating campaign, making just five Premier League starts.
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Milan are interested in signing Zinchenko for below £15 million, with the Rossoneri hoping to structure a salary package that spreads payments over several seasons.
Kiwior is also high on Milan’s list, with the Poland international’s ability to play across the back line making him an attractive prospect for the Rossoneri.
Kiwior impressed during his run in the Arsenal team, starting the final eight Premier League games and all four Champions League knockout fixtures following Gabriel Magalhaes’ hamstring injury.
However, Arsenal are believed to be monitoring new options at centre-back, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi among the names under consideration.
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Milan’s interest in Kiwior and Zinchenko comes as they seek to improve their defensive solidity under Allegri, who has prioritized reinforcements at the back since returning to the club in May.
The Rossoneri have struggled defensively in recent seasons, conceding over 40 goals in each of their last three league campaigns.
Arsenal are not actively pushing Zinchenko out, but the club are expected to listen to offers this summer. Zinchenko’s current contract runs until 2026, and while Milan’s bid may be tempting, the Gunners will likely want to secure a fair price for their defender.
LONDON COLNEY, ENGLAND – JULY 20: Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko of Arsenal during the pre season friendly between Arsenal XI and Leyton Orient XI at Sobha Realty Training Centre on July 20, 2024 in London Colney, England. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
The potential transfer comes amid speculation about Arsenal’s own transfer plans, with the Gunners reportedly set to present a formal offer to Sporting CP for Viktor Gyokeres in the coming hours. Gyokeres has been linked with a move to Arsenal, with the striker reportedly preferring the Gunners over other interested clubs.
As for Kiwior, his versatility and Serie A experience make him an attractive prospect for Milan’s recruitment team. With Allegri’s focus on defensive solidity, the Rossoneri may be willing to invest in quality defenders to strengthen their squad.
Milan are also tracking Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso and Tottenham Hotspur’s Destiny Udogie, but both players would likely command higher fees. For now, Zinchenko and Kiwior remain active targets as Milan press ahead with early summer business, and Arsenal could be tempted if the price is right.
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