Arsenal have already pinpointed an ideal replacement for Oleksandr Zinchenko, with Edu planning a similar £34 million move.
Mikel Arteta and Edu have been eyeing several transfers, with the latest name fitting Arsenal’s model well. Before the Gunners’ final match of the 2023/24 season, Arteta discussed the club’s transfer strategy, expressing his desire to finalize deals early.
“That’s the ideal scenario,” he said when asked about completing transfers at the start of the window. “Every club wants that, and we as coaches want that for the players and the team. It creates momentum and positively impacts the environment.”
As the season ends, Arsenal has been linked with Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow, suggesting Aaron Ramsdale might leave this summer. Other possible departures include Oleksandr Zinchenko, Emile Smith Rowe, and Thomas Partey ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Selling key players could fund high-profile transfers, necessitating replacements. Fenerbahce’s Ferdi Kadioglu, capable of playing on both flanks, could replace Zinchenko. However, Leeds United’s Archie Gray might be an even better fit, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
“Arsenal is among several clubs interested in Archie Gray at Leeds United,” Romano reported via Caught Offside. “There’s interest in Gray from Germany and England. Leeds hoped to keep Gray and Crysencio Summerville, but after missing out on Premier League promotion, selling them may be unavoidable.”
Leeds’ failure to secure promotion might force them to sell key players like Gray. The versatile 18-year-old, who can play right-back and midfield, had an impressive season at Elland Road, likely catching Arteta’s eye.
Last summer, Arsenal signed Jurrien Timber for £34 million to play in Zinchenko’s role, but Timber’s long-term injury altered those plans. Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jakub Kiwior were often preferred over Zinchenko, suggesting he might be sold if Arsenal acquires Gray. As a teenager, Gray would likely accept a backup role, with a clear plan for his development under Arteta.