Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko has emerged as a target for Ligue 1 side Marseille, but negotiations are proving difficult due to the player’s salary demands. According to journalist David Ornstein, discussions are ongoing, though a resolution is not guaranteed before the close of the transfer window.
The 28-year-old left-back, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022, has seen his role at the Emirates diminish in recent months. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reshaped his defensive options with the signings of Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie, while academy product Myles Lewis-Skelly has also pushed into the first-team picture. These changes have left Zinchenko with fewer opportunities, raising the possibility of a move away.
Ornstein reported that Marseille are exploring the possibility of a permanent transfer. However, the Ukraine international’s wages are significantly higher than what the French club typically offers, creating a major obstacle. Unless a financial compromise can be reached, the deal could stall despite Marseille’s interest.
Zinchenko had been an important figure for Arsenal after his arrival from Manchester City, playing a key role in Arteta’s system during his first season in North London. His technical ability and versatility made him a valuable option at left-back and in midfield. However, with Arsenal continuing to strengthen defensively, his influence has declined.
The Gunners have been one of the most active clubs in the summer transfer market, bringing in several high-profile players. Among their signings are Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, Christian Norgaard, and goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie is also expected to join before the window shuts. These additions have left Arsenal with a large squad, making it increasingly likely that outgoings will follow.
Zinchenko is one of the leading candidates to depart, though his situation is complicated by the financial implications of his contract. He has one year remaining on his deal, and if a transfer does not materialize, he could choose to remain at Arsenal until next summer before leaving on a free. This scenario would allow him to secure a potentially lucrative move without the constraints of a transfer fee.
For Marseille, securing Zinchenko would represent a significant coup. The French club are looking to strengthen their defense with experienced players as they aim to compete in Ligue 1 and in European competition. Zinchenko’s ability to play both in defense and midfield would provide versatility, while his experience in the Premier League and at international level with Ukraine would add leadership to the squad.
Still, the financial side of the deal remains a major stumbling block. Marseille operate with a more modest wage structure compared to top Premier League clubs, and bridging that gap is proving difficult. Unless Arsenal are willing to cover part of his wages or Zinchenko agrees to a reduction, the move could collapse.
Zinchenko’s situation highlights the challenges players face when falling down the pecking order at a club with ambitions to consistently refresh and upgrade its squad. While he was once central to Arteta’s tactical approach, Arsenal’s continued investment in younger and more dynamic defenders has shifted the balance. For the player, a move could reignite his career with regular game time, while for Marseille, it would be an opportunity to add quality to their ranks.
As transfer deadline day approaches, the clock is ticking on whether a deal can be struck. For now, talks between Arsenal and Marseille remain active, but with significant financial hurdles to overcome, Zinchenko’s immediate future remains uncertain.
