Sky Sports: AC Milan ‘Exploring’ Deal to Sign £32million Arsenal Star | OneFootball

AC Milan Eye Zinchenko: What Arsenal’s Transfer Dilemma Reveals

Sky Sports have reported that AC Milan are currently “exploring the conditions of a potential deal for Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko.” With one year left on his current contract and a squad increasingly defined by youth and athleticism, Zinchenko’s future in North London appears uncertain.

At 28, and once a key tactical cog in Mikel Arteta’s build-up play, Zinchenko’s position has been weakened in recent months. The rise of Myles Lewis-Skelly, hailed as “a prodigious talent” by academy insiders, has contributed to Zinchenko’s reduced role. Arsenal’s tactical evolution now leans toward dynamic full-backs who can defend 1v1 aggressively, traits Zinchenko has occasionally struggled to maintain over 90 minutes.

Sky in Italy note that “his wages are a potential obstacle for Milan,” who are evaluating their options should Theo Hernandez leave for Atletico Madrid. Given the financial structures within Serie A and Milan’s generally shrewder budget approach, wage negotiations may be the biggest hurdle in this prospective transfer.

Arsenal’s Transfer Stance Remains Open

While Arsenal have not publicly declared Zinchenko for sale, the interest from AC Milan is timely. Arsenal’s squad depth has grown significantly, and Arteta’s decisions in the second half of the season have hinted at a new direction.

Zinchenko, who arrived from Manchester City for £32 million in 2022, was initially seen as one of Arteta’s trusted lieutenants, bringing technical excellence and leadership into the dressing room. However, tactical shifts, fitness concerns, and increased competition have redefined his role.

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He was reportedly on the radar of both Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in the January window, according to Sky Sports. Although no formal offers materialised then, it is clear that his technical quality is still admired across Europe. But admiration alone will not guarantee a move unless wage and role expectations are aligned.

Milan’s Summer Plans Depend on Hernandez Outcome

AC Milan’s interest in Zinchenko is closely tied to the possible exit of Theo Hernandez. Should Atletico Madrid secure the France international, Milan would face a sizeable gap in their defence and would need a replacement with tactical intelligence and experience.

Zinchenko fits that profile. His background at Manchester City and Arsenal, two possession-dominant sides, means he could be a valuable asset in Serie A. Whether Milan can negotiate terms that satisfy all parties remains to be seen.

Sky in Italy’s insight underscores the fluidity of this situation. As it stands, Milan are only “exploring the conditions,” meaning no bid has been lodged, but groundwork is being laid.

What This Means For Arsenal’s Summer Business

Arsenal’s plans this summer hinge on outgoings as much as incomings. Zinchenko’s potential departure would open up a squad space and wage capacity. Whether that is used to promote Lewis-Skelly permanently or reinvest in another profile will depend on how far Arsenal want to refresh their full-back options.

The Gunners are expected to compete on multiple fronts again next season. That requires depth and adaptability, but also a squad balanced between youth and experience. If the right offer arrives, letting Zinchenko go could be a pragmatic decision, particularly as he enters the final year of his contract.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As an Arsenal fan, the thought of Zinchenko leaving divides opinion. There’s no denying his football IQ and leadership qualities. He helped raise standards when he joined and was instrumental in Arsenal’s title push during the 2022–23 season. His technical ability and calmness in possession are rare for a full-back.

But fans have also seen the defensive vulnerabilities. Too often in big matches, especially away from home, Zinchenko was targeted. While he brought control, he also left space behind, forcing Gabriel or others to cover.

Myles Lewis-Skelly’s emergence is hugely exciting. He’s aggressive, athletic, and seems to have the defensive instincts Zinchenko lacks. But is he ready for a full Premier League season? Maybe, maybe not. What’s clear is that Arteta is reshaping the team. If Zinchenko moves on, it will feel like the end of a short but meaningful chapter.

Financially, if Arsenal can recover £15–20 million and shed a sizeable wage, that money could go toward strengthening elsewhere. A title push again next season requires smart decision-making. If this is the end for Zinchenko, he’ll leave with respect and appreciation from most corners of the Emirates.