West Ham United face Arsenal competition for Manchester City man Oleksandr Zinchenko
West Ham are in line to go head-to-head against Arsenal for the signing of Oleksandr Zinchenko, according to the Evening Standard.
The Gunners want to “raid” Manchester City for a second time this summer, after signing Gabriel Jesus, to bring in the versatile Ukrainian.
The Hammers have been interested in signing him for months, with Claret & Hugh reporting back in March that David Moyes had first made inquiries last summer.
Pep Guardiola wants a new left-back and is targeting Brighton’s Marc Cucurella, leaving Zinchenko, 25, who has spent most of his time at City in that position, facing decreased playing time.
The latest report says: “Standard Sport understands City are willing to sanction a transfer should Zinchenko want more first-team minutes, which both the Gunners and the Hammers are offering.”
It looked like Chelsea might be set to swipe the Ukraine international as part of their talks over Raheem Sterling and Nathan Ake, but while one of those two have made the move and the other looks set to follow they appear to have moved back from the Hammers target.
London rivalry
With Moyes wanting help in midfield and at left back there should be extensive opportunities for Zinchenko if he makes a move to the London Stadium.
Cost might be the stumbling block considering it was reported by Claret & Hugh on 6 June that he would cost £40million with two years left on his deal.
No doubt he is a helpful option for any manager to have since his versatility allows him to cover various spots, but if Guardiola has already brought in midfielder Kalvin Phillips and wants Cucurella at left back then the incumbent could want out.
Therefore, based on the Standard report if the player pushes for a move it should help things along, and in turn potentially reduce the price.
If West Ham can make a pitch direct to Zinchenko, as seems to be routine these days, and get his interest secured then it would presumably make a difference here.
Mikel Arteta has the advantage of previously having been a coach at the Etihad but long-term interest from Moyes shows a commitment that players often value.
Current teammate Kyle Walker repeatedly referred to the utility man as “incredible” in a recent YouTube interview with Timbsy, and the Hammers boss clearly agrees.
While the club appear to have escaped the prospect of losing one of their targets to cross-city rivals in blue, the chances of those in red stealing in have now shot up, so they better get moving.