An insight into Arsenal’s capture of Oleksandr Zinchenko has emerged on Tuesday.
Though not confirmed at the time of writing, Arsenal are set to make the full-back their latest signing of the 2022 summer transfer window.
The Ukrainian is believed to have set back Arsenal a guaranteed £30m, with personal terms agreed on a contract until 2026.
Zinchenko has been brought into the club to provide some much-needed cover for Kieran Tierney, though he is also expected to provide cover in midfield as well, as that was his position before Pep Guardiola made him into a left-back.
Now, Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Everton were also interested in signing Zinchenko, but due to Mikel Arteta’s pull, the defender was drawn towards the north Londoners:
“Everton also wanted him but Zinchenko only gave the green light to Arsenal thanks to Mikel Arteta, who has been in love with Oleksandr for some time,” said Romano. “As with Gabriel Jesus, their relationship from working together at Manchester City was very strong and it’s been a big help for the Gunners in the transfer market.”
Romano added: “I think it’s a very intelligent signing, the kind any top team would be happy with. Zinchenko is a versatile, intelligent player, capable of playing very well at left-back, and even as a midfielder. Above all, he will bring a winning mentality to the club. In my opinion, this deal will be a success.”
Zinchenko joins Gabriel Jesus and Fabio Vieira as senior, first-team signings at the Emirates this summer, with the Gunners now expected to turn their attention towards a defensive midfielder and possibly another wide option.
