Zinchenko Leaves Arsenal for Champions League Contenders as Arteta Snatches £40M Left Back Replacement from Chelsea and Man United
Arsenal have reportedly targeted Feyenoord left-back Quilindschy Hartman but may need to wait until next season to secure his transfer.
The 22-year-old, previously linked to Chelsea in January, preferred not to move mid-season as he aimed for a spot in the Netherlands squad for the upcoming European Championships. Hartman was a candidate for selection until a knee injury in March required surgery, sidelining him until next season, potentially until 2025. Mikel Arteta is expected to seek a new left-back to replace Oleksandr Zinchenko this year.
The Telegraph reports that Arsenal have added Hartman to their shortlist, appreciating his contribution to Feyenoord’s league title success and his form before the injury. However, his recovery means a summer transfer is unlikely.
Hartman revealed that Feyenoord had indicated he could move after the season, having blocked a January transfer following Chelsea’s interest. Arne Slot’s move to Liverpool could also increase Hartman’s chances of leaving within the next year.
With two years left on his contract, Hartman was linked to Burnley last August, with a potential transfer fee of £17m. His value is believed to have increased despite his injury setback.
Speaking to ESPN, Hartman discussed Chelsea’s winter interest, which persisted until his injury. “I think they don’t want me now, but they really wanted me,” he said.
“It started in the winter break. They approached Feyenoord, but I didn’t want to move then. I had just broken through, started playing regularly, and made it to the Dutch national team. With the European Championships coming up, it wasn’t the right time.
“Feyenoord also made it clear: they were open to a move in the summer, but not then. Chelsea returned in the last few months, but unfortunately, things turned out differently. Now I’m staying with Feyenoord, but it might have happened otherwise.”