Arteta could sell two unexpected Arsenal players as per new reports

Arsenal could reportedly sell two unexpected players as Mikel Arteta wouldn't be opposed to their departure as per current reports.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 11: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, looks on during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal FC at London Stadium on February 11, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

As the summer transfer window approaches, Arsenal is gearing up for a period of both acquisitions and potential sales. Renowned journalist Charles Watts has revealed that two unexpected names could be on the chopping block as Mikel Arteta considers reshaping his squad.

“There are a few players at Arsenal right now who, while the club do not actively want to sell, they would consider offers for, should good ones arrive this summer. I would include Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior on that list,” Watts stated. “I can’t see both being allowed to go in the same window, but I wouldn’t be shocked if one was to leave. If I had to choose between one to go, I would probably go with Zinchenko.”

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 14: Oleksandr Zinchenko of Arsenal looks on prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Aston Villa at Emirates Stadium on April 14, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

This insight suggests that while Arsenal values both players, they are open to strategic changes if lucrative offers come in. Oleksandr Zinchenko, the club’s first-choice left-back, had a challenging season plagued by injuries. Despite his quality and experience, his physical setbacks have raised questions about his reliability over a long campaign.

On the other hand, Jakub Kiwior served primarily as a backup defender for the solid centre-back duo of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes. However, Kiwior found his niche covering the left-back position during Zinchenko’s absence in the latter half of the season, proving his versatility and value to the squad.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 24: Jakub Kiwior of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Newcastle United at Emirates Stadium on February 24, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsenal concluded the 2023/24 season in second place with 89 points, just two points shy of champions Manchester City. This close finish underlines the importance of maintaining a robust and adaptable squad to push for the title next season.

While both Zinchenko and Kiwior have their merits, the potential departure of one could open the door for new signings or provide the funds necessary to strengthen other areas. For Arsenal fans, this summer promises to be a period of both excitement and apprehension as the club navigates the transfer market with an eye on building a team capable of surpassing their recent achievements and finally clinching the Premier League title.