Mikel Arteta may be about to replace key Arsenal player as two clues spotted over potential summer exit

Two clues suggest that Arsenal might be planning to sell a star who plays a key role in Mikel Arteta's side.

Arsenal's Premier League title bid suffered a major blow on Sunday as they lost 2-0 at home to Aston Villa.

Defeat left the Gunners two points behind leaders Manchester City with six games left to play, so there is still time to turn things around.

Regardless of how Arsenal's title challenge pans out, over the last two seasons Arteta's side have established themselves as regular title challengers.

To stay in the leading pack next season and beyond, investment in the playing squad will need to be made this summer.

One player who has question marks over his future is Oleksandr Zinchenko.

The Ukrainian left-back arrived from City in 2022 in a deal worth an initial £32 million, with Arteta keen to work with him again after their time together at the Etihad Stadium.

Last season Zinchenko brought a fresh dynamic to Arsenal's build-up play, and his ability to play in midfield and attack continues to give Arteta great tactical flexibility.

However, this season his defensive shortcomings have at times been glaringly obvious, and with opponents wising up to Arsenal's build-up approach, Zinchenko's positives may no longer outweigh his negatives.

Oleksandr Zinchenko in action for Arsenal. (Image: Getty)

Zinchenko has two years remaining on his contract, but according to The Athletic, Arsenal have not initiated serious talks about a renewal.

The fact that they have not - after renewing the likes of Bukayo Saka, William Saliba and Martin Odegaard with plenty of time to spare - suggests he could be on the way out.

The Athletic have also reported that Arteta wants to bring in a new left-back this summer.

The fact that Arsenal have plenty of cover in that position - Jakub Kiwior, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Jurrien Timber and on-loan Kieran Tierney and Nuno Tavares can all play there - suggests Arteta wants a major upgrade in that position.

Zinchenko brought a lot to Arsenal last season, and played a key role in their development into title challengers.

However, the current signs are that Arsenal might be ready to move on from him.

Topics: Arsenal, Premier League, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Mikel Arteta, Football

Alex Brotherton

Alex Brotherton is a Sports Trends Writer at SPORTbible. He has previously worked with publications including the Manchester Evening News, GOAL and BBC Sport. He is a football fanatic, but also dabbles in tennis and American football. He enjoys running, cooking and watching non-league football.

@alex_brotherton