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8 hours ago
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Fulham want to sign Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson this summer and are also exploring a deal for Oleksandr Zinchenko, Sporting News understands.
The Cottagers are considering a move for the Ukraine international, who is expected to leave the Gunners following a season of limited opportunities under Mikel Arteta.
Zinchenko, 28, made just eight starts across all competitions in the 2024-25 campaign, with only five of those coming in the Premier League.
He has fallen down the pecking order at Emirates Stadium, with Riccardo Calafiori and academy product Myles Lewis-Skelly both preferred at left-back in recent months.
A natural midfielder who has often been deployed at full-back since arriving in English football, Zinchenko’s versatility has previously been seen as a key asset.
But Arsenal’s evolving tactical setup and depth in multiple positions has raised the prospect of a summer departure.
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Where would Zinchenko fit in at Fulham?
Under Cottagers boss Marco Silva, first-choice right-back Kenny Tete is set to depart when his contract expires at the end of June, with Zinchenko being viewed more broadly as a utility option across midfield and defence.
Silva's side are open to adding depth and competition in that area, particularly with the added benefit of Zinchenko’s experience and ball-playing ability in central areas.
The Ukrainian could also offer another midfield option alongside Harrison Reed, Sasa Lukic, and Josh King.
Club captain Tom Cairney’s future remains uncertain, with negotiations ongoing over a potential new contract. Zinchenko is understood to be settled in London and may be open to a move that allows him to remain in the capital.
He joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022 and was an integral part of the squad that challenged for the Premier League title in his debut season. However, persistent injuries and form issues have seen his role diminish.
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