Arsenal duo tipped to have played major role in Oleksandr Zinchenko signing – pundit
Alan Hutton has suggested conversations with Mikel Arteta and Gabriel Jesus could have encouraged Oleksandr Zinchenko to join Arsenal.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Tottenham and Aston Villa defender said it’s good to know the manager before you sign for a club.
The Gunners confirmed (22 July) the signing of Zinchenko, 25, from Man City.
He put pen to paper on a four-year deal with the London club, keeping him at the Emirates until 2026.
The Ukraine international made his debut for Mikel Arteta’s side on Sunday (24 July).
He was included in Arsenal’s starting line-up to face Chelsea and played 45 minutes.
When asked if he thought Zinchenko’s relationship to Arteta and Jesus could have been a factor in his decision to join the Gunners, Hutton told Football Insider: “Obviously Arteta was at Man City so they know each other anyway.
“Jesus and him have probably been in contact, asking what pre-season is like, what the manager is like, what training is like, what the team’s objectives are for next season, things that you want to know before you sign for the club.
“It’s massive, and always good knowing the manager so you can have a good conversation before you sign and he can layout the plans for you.“
Zinchenko made 28 appearances across all competitions for City last season, including eight appearances in their Champions League campaign.
During that time he provided five assists.
In other news, a pundit has backed Arsenal to complete ‘perfect’ transfer amid Nuno Tavares claim.