Ajax Launch Raid on Arsenal with Zinchenko Deal Done and Norgaard in Sights

Arsenal's quality depth across the pitch is proving a double-edged sword this January. While Mikel Arteta's side sit atop the Premier League by four points—even after Sunday's 3-2 reverse at Manchester United—their strength in numbers is now attracting serious interest from elsewhere.

Ajax have moved decisively on two fronts, securing a deal for Oleksandr Zinchenko while simultaneously opening talks for Christian Norgaard as they orchestrate what amounts to a major winter offensive.

The Ukraine international's exit has been months in the making. Zinchenko's loan spell at Nottingham Forest has now been terminated, paving the way for his switch to Amsterdam. According to reports, Ajax have already reached an agreement with Arsenal over the transfer, with the Dutch club confident of rapid completion. The medical is expected to take place later this week, with Zinchenko subsequently penning a six-month contract at the Johan Cruijff Arena. Ajax will buy out the final half-year of his Arsenal deal to make it happen.

The 31-year-old Norgaard is now Ajax's next target. The Danish midfielder has managed just three Premier League appearances this season, a statistic that's prompted him to explore fresh opportunities where regular football beckons. Ajax have already initiated negotiations with Arsenal, and the former Brentford man is receptive to a move to the Eredivisie. However, the Dutch side faces competition—Bundesliga outfits Eintracht Frankfurt and Borussia Dortmund are also circling.

Arsenal's squad depth means there's scope for departures, yet the club remains protective of its key assets. Gabriel Jesus, despite previous transfer gossip linking him with AC Milan, remains entirely off the market. Transfer analyst Fabrizio Romano has clarified that a Milan move was never genuinely on the table, with the Brazilian never offered to the Serie A club and Arsenal viewing him as untouchable. The Gunners' hierarchy has always considered both Jesus and Kai Havertz essential to their attacking rotation, with the plan instead involving young prospect Ethan Nwaneri heading out on loan to gain experience.

Arsenal's season continues to flourish across all competitions. They top the Premier League standings, sit in the League Cup semi-finals, have reached the FA Cup fourth round, and have maintained a perfect record in the Champions League with seven straight victories.