Image credit: Getty Images
Fulham have emerged as surprise contenders to sign Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko this summer, with reports suggesting the Ukrainian international could be available for as little as £10 million.
The Cottagers are looking to capitalise on Zinchenko’s diminished role at the Emirates Stadium as they seek reinforcements ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign. Manager Marco Silva is said to be a strong admirer of the 28-year-old’s versatility and experience, seeing him as an ideal addition to strengthen both midfield and defence.
Zinchenko joined Arsenal from Manchester City in July 2022 for an initial £30 million fee, with a further £2 million in potential add-ons. He quickly became a key figure under Mikel Arteta, playing a pivotal role in Arsenal’s 2022/23 title push. However, his influence has waned in recent months due to increased competition from rising star Myles Lewis-Skelly and new signing Riccardo Calafiori, as well as the adaptability of Jurrien Timber and Jakub Kiwior.
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Last season, Zinchenko made just 15 Premier League appearances, prompting growing speculation over his future in North London.
According toThe Sun, Fulham are actively pursuing the Ukrainian and believe they can land him for a fee in the region of £10 million, significantly less than Arsenal’s original outlay. While the Gunners are said to value him closer to £12.7 million, Fulham are confident of negotiating a lower price. A source quoted by SunSport said, “Zinchenko is a major target for Fulham. He looks almost certain to leave Arsenal this summer, and there will be no shortage of takers.”
Oleksandr Zinchenko injury
Oleksandr Zinchenko (Image credit: Getty Images)
The west London club face competition from several European sides, including AC Milan, Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, and Ajax. Milan have reportedly held initial talks with intermediaries, but Fulham could hold an advantage due to Zinchenko’s reported desire to remain in London, where he has settled since moving from Manchester three years ago.
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Zinchenko’s current contract runs until 2026, but Arsenal are believed to be open to offers as they continue their squad reshaping under Arteta and new technical director Andrea Berta. With strong depth at left-back and the need to free up funds for summer signings, the Gunners are willing to part ways with the Ukrainian international.
For Fulham, the move would mark a major statement of intent as they look to build on a promising 2024/25 season. Silva is keen to add players with top-level experience, and Zinchenko’s ability to operate both in defence and midfield makes him an attractive option for multiple systems.
However, potential hurdles remain. Zinchenko’s £5 million-a-year salary may prove a stumbling block for some suitors, especially clubs in Italy dealing with tighter financial regulations. There’s also speculation that the 28-year-old could choose to see out the remainder of his Arsenal contract and leave on a free transfer in 2026 if the right opportunity doesn’t arise this summer.
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