Arsenal defender set to leave as Gunners plan moves for three new players

Chris Wheatley

Arsenal defender set to leave as Gunners plan moves for three new players  image

Arsenal are preparing for a summer of change as they look to reshape Mikel Arteta’s squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with multiple incomings and outgoings expected at Emirates Stadium.

Oleksandr Zinchenko is among the players who could be on the move, with AC Milan stepping up their interest in the former Manchester City full-back. The Ukraine international has struggled with form and fitness over the past year, and the Gunners are now open to letting him leave as they assess options at left-back.

While defensive reinforcements are being considered, Ajax teenager Jorrel Hato remains a target, the club’s focus is firmly on attacking additions. Mikel Arteta's side are in the market for a top-level centre-forward and have identified Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokores as their leading options.

Andrea Berta, Arsenal’s newly-appointed sporting director, has held advanced talks over both strikers. Gyokeres is expected to cost upwards of $70 million, while Sesko's camp are aware of growing interest from the Premier League, with Arsenal pushing to be at the front of the queue.

There is also lingering interest in Ollie Watkins. The Aston Villa striker was a target in January and, although a deal couldn’t be completed then, Arsenal have continued to monitor his performances closely. Depending on how other targets progress, a renewed move for the England international could yet be explored.

In midfield, Martin Zubimendi is set to complete his move to Arsenal at the end of June after the Gunners agreed a fee with Real Sociedad for his transfer.

📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp

Who will leave Arsenal this summer?

At the other end of the squad, exits will be required to create space for new arrivals. Zinchenko is one of several fringe players who could depart, with Arsenal mindful of maintaining financial balance as part of their summer plans.

One position that will also see changes is in goal. The Gunners are in talks to bring in Kepa Arrizabalaga as fresh competition for David Raya, who is expected to remain first choice next season. Kepa, currently back at Chelsea after a loan spell at Bournemouth, would arrive to bolster the depth of Arsenal’s goalkeeping department.

His signing would also spell the end of Karl Hein’s time at the club. The Estonian international is expected to leave in search of regular minutes, with sporting director Berta now finalising plans to ensure strong cover across all key positions.

Arsenal news and related links

Chris Wheatley

Chris Wheatley is a leading football journalist who has spent over a decade covering the Premier League and European football. He is known for breaking exclusive stories and trusted coverage of clubs, players and the transfer market. Over the years, he has interviewed some of the sport’s most influential figures and consistently delivered stories that shape the football conversation.