FC Porto have become the latest team to show an interest in Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko, though the Gunners are yet to receive a formal offer.
arsenal fc v west ham united fc premier league 5
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Sam Cohen and Ben Jacobs report for GiveMeSport that FC Porto have shown an interest in Oleksandr Zinchenko, even making contact with Arsenal over a potential move.
Conversations are still at an early stage, but the two clubs reportedly have a good relationship, which could help negotiations. Both Arsenal and Zinchenko are open to a summer transfer.
But Porto are yet to submit a formal offer, and Zinchenko also reportedly has interest from Fulham and Fenerbahce.
LONDON, ENGLAND: Oleksandr Zinchenko of Arsenal applauds the fans at the end of the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Nottingham Forest FC at Emirates Stadium on November 23, 2024. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Arsenal have already turned down one offer from Porto this summer, but not for Zinchenko.
The Portuguese side reportedly bid to sign Jakub Kiwior on an initial loan for a €7m fee with an obligation to buy set at €20m. The total €27m package fell short of Arsenal’s €35m+ valuation, so they turned it down.
Zinchenko could be an easier deal to do, with the player on the fringes of Mikel Arteta’s squad and his contract expiring in 2026. Arsenal are seemingly happy to keep Kiwior, but Zinchenko’s departure could suit everyone.
CARSON, CALIFORNIA: Oleksandr Zinchenko of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring during the penalty kick shootout against AFC Bournemouth at Dignity Health Sports Park on July 24, 2024. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)
Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images
Writing in his autobiography, Zinchenko recently admitted the 2024/25 season was the worst he’d experienced on a personal level. Though he was fit all season, he was rarely selected in the starting lineup unless Arteta needed to rotate.
On his future, the left-back said “let’s see what time will bring” adding “I still want to play football”. Perhaps Porto could provide an opportunity for him to do so in 2025/26.
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