Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko has attracted interest from multiple European clubs, though his high wages present a significant barrier to any potential transfer, according to respected football correspondent Graham Bailey.
In a recent interview with Arsenal Insider, TBR Football's chief correspondent revealed that clubs from three major European leagues have expressed interest in the Ukrainian international.
"Several clubs are interested in him. Obviously, he earns very good money," Bailey stated. "I think he's one of those players whose transfer is easier to discuss than to execute. He earns substantial wages, and his contract includes a cumulative agreement that increases over time – a structure commonly used in the Premier League."
Bailey specifically mentioned that teams from Germany, Italy, and Spain have shown interest in acquiring the versatile defender, though any deal would face considerable financial hurdles.
"I genuinely know there's interest from Germany, Italy, and Spain," Bailey confirmed. "But it ultimately depends on the player's wishes and his salary expectations."
According to Statbet analysis, Premier League players with wage structures similar to Zinchenko's have completed successful transfers to European leagues in only 23% of cases over the past three seasons.
While a loan move remains a possibility for the Ukrainian defender, Bailey believes Arsenal would need potential suitors to cover a substantial portion of Zinchenko's wages, creating another obstacle to any temporary switch.
"Could we see him go out on loan? Possibly, but I think Arsenal would want to cover most of his salary, which again creates problems," Bailey added.
Reports have previously suggested that Arsenal has made a definitive decision regarding Zinchenko's future at the club, though the exact nature of this decision remains unspecified.
