Arsenal transfer announced hours before deadline as statement released | Football | Sport
Mikel Arteta speaks with Arsenal chairman Josh Kroenke. (Image: PA)
Oleksandr Zinchenko has departed Arsenal to join Ajax, it has been confirmed. The 29-year-old arrived at the Gunners from Manchester City in 2022 and was instrumental under Mikel Arteta as the north London club launched an unexpected Premier League title challenge.
The Ukrainian went on to feature 91 times for Arsenal and spent the opening half of the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Nottingham Forest. However, his stint at the City Ground proved disappointing, with just 10 appearances to his name. Zinchenko’s loan arrangement at Forest was terminated by mutual agreement and he has now completed a permanent switch to Ajax. The defender has put pen to paper on a deal in Amsterdam that runs until the end of this season.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Arsenal said: “Oleksandr Zinchenko has joined Ajax in a permanent transfer. Alex’s season-long loan with Nottingham Forest has been ended by mutual consent, and the defender now moves to the Netherlands to join the Eredivisie side.
“The 29-year-old arrived from Manchester City in July 2022 and made 91 appearances in all competitions during his three seasons with us. Ukraine international Alex became his country’s youngest goalscorer at the age of 19, as well as their youngest captain at the age of 24.
“He has made 75 appearances for his country and was named Ukrainian Footballer of the Year in 2019. We thank Alex for his contribution to the club and wish him and his family well in their new chapter.”
The deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes. In a farewell message to Arsenal, Zinchenko said: “To the Gunners.
“I will never forget the way you welcomed me. “”Still remember the goosebumps I got at the first game after hearing your ‘Always beliiiiiieeeve’.
“I couldn’t even dream about it. From the deepest place in my heart I would like to say a massive thank you for everything that you have done for me and my family.
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Oleksandr Zinchenko in the stands during the Eredivisie match between Excelsior and Ajax. (Image: Getty Images)
“To the coaching staff, thank you for the opportunity to be a small part of this amazing club. To the players, thank you for the priceless experience, fantastic memories and becoming friends for life.
“To all the staff, thank you for your help and for looking after me and my family. And of course to the fans, for love, support and criticism which we as a players need to accept and work even harder.
“I just want to wish you all the best and hope you achieve everything what ever you wish. Once a Gunner always a Gunner. Thank you.”
Ajax’s director of football, Marijn Beuker, said: “With Oleksandr, we are bringing in an experienced player who gives us an immediate quality boost in the pursuit of Champions League football.
“As a left-back he is tactically strong, provides defensive stability and fits perfectly with our way of playing. ” “Oleksandr has proven in the Premier League that, in addition to his defensive qualities, he can also play an important role in build-up play and breaking lines.
“We are therefore very pleased that he will strengthen our squad at least until the summer.”
