Mirror stated in a recent report that Manchester City full-back Oleksandr Zinchenko is preparing to complete his move to Arsenal. It is understood that the transfer deal is worth up to £32million, which the Sky Blues would utilise to bring in a decent replacement at the backline.
Zinchenko’s Campaign With Manchester City So Far
Zinchenko has enjoyed a successful campaign at the Etihad Stadium over the past six years as he won four Premier League titles, four Carabao Cups and one FA Cup with the Mancunian giants. He has featured in 28 matches for the Mancunian outfit in the last season, picking up five assists in the process, grabbing a crucial one at the last game against Aston Villa, which helped City lift the Domestic title yet again.
The 48-time Ukraine international has made the most out of his appearances last season, often coming off the bench, averaging 1.3 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, 0.7 clearances, 0.8 shots, 1.1 key passes and 0.4 dribbles per game in the top tier of English football. He was also tidy with his ball distribution after making 90.7% of his attempted passes in the English first division (stats via whoscored).
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How Does Guardiola Plan To Fill The Void Created From Zinchenko’s Departure?
Zinchenko played a vital role in Guardiola’s squad as he was kept in rotation to provide cover in the left-back position. He has been a key element in the Etihad club’s success over the years. His departure leaves a significant gap in the defensive department which has to be filled in by bringing a decent replacement.
Pep Guardiola has identified Marc Cucurella as a perfect fit and the Sky Blues are in pursuit of his signature before the summer transfer window comes to an end. However, things are looking bleak for the Citizens as Brighton remains reluctant to reduce the price tag for their newly acquired asset.
This poses a huge problem for City as they remain in dire need of a left-back. Guardiola will either need to meet the Seagulls’ demands or look elsewhere before the transfer window concludes at the end of this month.
