Mikel Arteta makes call on Calafiori and Zinchenko amid summer transfer

As the sun sets on another summer transfer window, Mikel Arteta has drawn a firm line under the futures of two left‑backs at Arsenal—with very different outcomes.

Arteta makes bold call on Calafiori and Zinchenko amid summer shake‑up

The Gunners made a bold move last summer, investing around €50 million (£42 million) in Italy’s promising Riccardo Calafiori.

Despite a campaign disrupted by injuries, Calafiori impressed when fit—and crucially, he wanted to remain in north London.

Arsenal, sharing that belief, have no intention of cashing in on the 23‑year‑old this summer.

In contrast, life looks set for Oleksandr Zinchenko elsewhere. Once hailed as a key signing from Manchester City, the 28‑year‑old Ukrainian has slipped to third-choice left-back, behind both Calafiori and academy star Myles Lewis‑Skelly.

With just one year left on his contract and earning north of £200,000 a week, his status at the club has changed—and Arteta has given the green light for an exit.

AC Milan have been the primary suitors, with their director reportedly travelling to London to initiate negotiations. Their efforts are ongoing, though salary demands remain a hurdle.

This exit isn’t simply cosmetic. Arsenal are entering a transformative summer—seeking to reshape their squad and sharpen focus on attack.

A top-class No. 9 is Mikel Arteta’s priority, with names like Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins firmly on the radar.

Meanwhile, key midfield reinforcements, including Martin Zubimendi, and competition for David Raya in goal, are also high on the agenda.

Calafiori: Barcelona’s new left‑back remains integral, beloved by both squad and staff.

Zinchenko: Experienced, decorated, but surplus to needs—a graceful exit appears imminent.

Arteta has struck a nuanced balance—valuing young potential while managing wage structure and squad dynamics.

As the rebuild gathers pace, fans can expect more comings and goings before Arsenal launch their bid for silverware in 2025–26.