Kadioglu vs. Zinchenko: Key stats of Arsenal transfer target that explain Mikel Arteta’s interest
One of Arsenal’s top priorities for the summer transfer window is to secure a left-back who can solidify the position next season. Neither Oleksandr Zinchenko nor Jakub Kiwior managed to maintain their spots, with both being replaced by natural right-back Takehiro Tomiyasu by the end of the campaign. Fenerbahce’s Ferdi Kadioglu has been identified as a potential solution, with Aston Villa also showing interest.
The 24-year-old Turkish international is expected to prefer a move to the Premier League this summer if given the opportunity. But should Arsenal be the ones to provide it? Football.london has analyzed the key stats comparing Kadioglu and Zinchenko.
It’s important to acknowledge the significant quality gap between the Turkish Super Lig and the Premier League. However, WhoScored’s comparison shows Kadioglu excelling in several defensive metrics over the Ukrainian. For instance, Kadioglu has made 1.6 clearances per match compared to Zinchenko’s 0.8. Despite both players making similar numbers of tackles per game, Zinchenko commits fewer fouls (0.3 compared to Kadioglu’s 0.9).
Offensively, Kadioglu offers an edge that may appeal to Arteta. The 24-year-old has provided more assists, key passes (1.4 to 1.1), and significantly more dribbles per game (1.5 to 0.3) than Zinchenko. This offensive prowess has also led to Kadioglu being fouled more often (1.6 times per game compared to Zinchenko’s 0.3).
Given these impressive attacking statistics, it’s clear why Kadioglu is a fan favorite at Fenerbahce. The main question is whether he can replicate these performances in the Premier League.