Arsenal are poised to finalise the permanent departure of defender Oleksandr Zinchenko to Dutch club Ajax, with reports indicating that a medical has been booked and a six-month contract is in place.
Transfer Details and Agreement
According to sources in the Netherlands, including Voetbal International, Arsenal and Nottingham Forest have reached an agreement to terminate Zinchenko's loan at the City Ground. This move clears the path for the Ukrainian international to join Ajax on a permanent basis, rather than the initially proposed loan deal.
Shift from Loan to Permanent Deal
Initially, discussions centred around a loan arrangement for Zinchenko to move to Ajax. However, the Dutch club later opted to pursue a permanent transfer, which temporarily delayed the process. Ajax officials are now confident that the deal can be completed quickly, with the financial terms reportedly similar to what was planned for the loan fee.
Player Background and Recent Form
Zinchenko joined Arsenal in 2022 from Manchester City and has been a part of the North London squad since. His loan spell at Nottingham Forest this season has been hampered by injuries and limited playing time, contributing to the decision for an early exit.
Managerial Insights
Ajax interim manager Fred Grim expressed optimism about the transfer, stating, "I hope that (Zinchenko’s signing) will take shape soon. At Ajax, we’re very busy strengthening our squad. It will have to be finalised in the coming week." Meanwhile, Forest manager Sean Dyche acknowledged the player's situation, noting that Zinchenko has been informed about his limited game time and the possibility of a move.
Impact on Arsenal's Transfer Window
While Arsenal are set to sanction Zinchenko's exit, the club is unlikely to make any significant arrivals before the transfer window closes, focusing instead on streamlining their squad for the remainder of the season.
