Arsenal and Nottingham Forest may have found a way out for struggling defender Oleksandr Zinchenko. The City Ground are considering ending the Arsenal left-back’s loan period early following his disappointing performances. The problem is made even more difficult by the lack of an exit clause in his contract and limited space in the Gunners’ first-team structure.
Nevertheless, a breakthrough could be imminent with reports suggesting Zinchenko is ready to move on. According to Dutch publication De Telegraaf, Ajax are looking to complete the deal for the Ukrainian player “as soon as possible”. He has reportedly reached an agreement with Arsenal for a loan move until the end of the season, with a few formalities remaining.
The 29-year-old is set to become a free agent in the summer, so it is believed that Ajax want to sign him on a permanent transfer at the end of the campaign.
It has been suggested that Zinchenko is open to a move to the Netherlands. Ajax are believed to be in talks with his agent, Jorge Mendes.
Since joining Forest on deadline day in the summer, Zinchenko has made just 10 appearances for the team and just five in the Premier League. Ola Aina’s recent return from injury has pushed him further down the full-back pecking order.
Dyche did not explicitly say that Zinchenko had been given permission to leave the City Ground, but his comments strongly suggested that scenario.
“We have spoken to the player and clarified his situation. He is aware of it so we will see what happens,” Forrest said on Thursday.
“We’ll see what happens. We’re very open with him. He’s a thorough professional, always has been, and I’m sure he’ll move forward no matter what.”
Forest then drew 0-0 with Arsenal, but Zinchenko was unable to play due to eligibility restrictions. This result could be important in the relegation battle as Dyche’s side currently sit five points above the relegation zone.
