Oleksandr Zinchenko’s frustrating spell at Nottingham Forest is nearing an end, with Ajax reportedly in advanced talks to sign the versatile Ukrainian star this January.
Although Zinchenko remains under contract with league leaders Arsenal until June 2027, he has spent the first half of the season on loan at the City Ground. However, according to reports from De Telegraaf, the loan is set to be terminated early after the 29-year-old failed to break into Nuno Espírito Santo’s starting eleven.
Sidelined in the Premier League
The numbers tell a story of a difficult season for Zinchenko. He has managed only ten appearances for Nottingham Forest in all competitions, failing to record a single goal or assist.
The strongest signal of his imminent departure came this Saturday, when Arsenal and Forest played out a 0-0 draw at the City Ground; Zinchenko was notably absent even from the substitutes’ bench, reinforcing claims that a move to Amsterdam is just a signature away.
The Ajax Solution: Versatility and Experience
Ajax is currently in the market for reinforcements in two key areas: left-back and defensive midfield. Zinchenko’s unique ability to invert and play as a playmaker from the back makes him the ideal candidate for the Dutch giants.
A move to the Netherlands would be a homecoming of sorts for the Ukrainian. Zinchenko previously played for PSV Eindhoven during the 2016/17 season while on loan from Manchester City, a period he often cites as crucial for his development into a Premier League winner.
BREAKING: #Ajax hoopt linksback #Zinchenko binnen te halen.
🗣️ club met #Arsenal op details na akkoord over (ver)huur van half jaar.
⚽️ aanvoerder van Oekraïne 🇺🇦 brengt ervaring die Grim zoekt.
💰 deal tussen clubs door Nathan van Kooperen.https://t.co/p3I6N0YHgW— Mike Verweij (@MikeVerweij) January 18, 2026
Impact on the Title Race
While Zinchenko’s departure won’t directly affect Mikel Arteta’s current squad as the Gunners already sit comfortably at the top with 50 points a permanent sale would provide Arsenal with extra funds to bolster their squad for the final title charge.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
