Mikel Arteta was a key factor in convincing the in-bound Oleksandr Zinchenko to move to the Emirates, reports Fabrizio Romano.
The completion of a deal for the Ukrainian star is a formality at this stage, with the Italian journalist reporting this morning that:
“Arsenal are already preparing official contracts and then schedule medical tests for Oleksandr Zinchenko."
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"Deal in place for £30m fee with Man City - player accepted as he's happy to work again with Arteta.”
Edu and co. will be satisfied with the work they’ve done.
In securing a Premier League proven, Guardiola tutored full-back, the technical security of the Gunners has increased substantially.
On Arteta’s behalf, the relationship with Zinchenko from his time spent in Manchester has served him well.
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The player accepting the transfer due to his desire to reunite with the Spaniard.
This isn’t the first time this summer that a move has materialised due to existing connections.
Arteta was also reportedly key in selling the Arsenal project to Gabriel Jesus, who has already shown the Gunners faithful what they have to look forward to.
Time will tell where the 25-year-old will be deployed at the Emirates, with the Ukrainian equally adept from full-back and midfield.
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When operating at full-back, Zinchenko operates as a de-facto midfielder due to his inverted role.
In essence he will be playing the same role with different labelling for Arteta’s side.
With the frequent injuries to Kieran Tierney, the Manchester City star will be confident his role in North London will be as a regular starter, and if his time in the Premier League shows anything, it’s that the Ukrainian is up for a fight.
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Zinchenko would be Arsenal's fifth signing of the summer.
Matt Turner, Marquinhos, Fabio Vieira and Gabriel Jesus have already arrived at the Emirates this summer.
Arsenal are showing no signs of slowing either with Mikel Arteta yesterday saying Arsenal's squad:
Topics: Arsenal, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Mikel Arteta, Transfers, Manchester City
Jake Lennard