Borussia Dortmund Target Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko as Priority Signing

Borussia Dortmund has identified Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko as their top transfer target ahead of Chelsea’s vice-captain Ben Chilwell. Dortmund is determined to bolster their defensive options, with Zinchenko’s versatility and experience making him the ideal candidate.

Dortmund’s Defensive Dilemma

Following the departure of manager Nuri Sahin earlier this week, Borussia Dortmund is undergoing a period of transition. The club, currently sitting 10th in the Bundesliga, is keen to address their defensive vulnerabilities to improve their domestic and European campaigns.

Initially, Dortmund had prioritized signing Renato Veiga from Chelsea but failed to agree on terms for the Portuguese defender. With Veiga now heading to Juventus on loan, Dortmund’s focus has shifted to Zinchenko, who has found himself lower in Arsenal’s defensive hierarchy this season.

Zinchenko’s Arsenal Role

Oleksandr Zinchenko joined Arsenal from Manchester City in July 2022 for £30 million, seeking more regular first-team opportunities. However, the Ukrainian has fallen behind Riccardo Calafiori and academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly in the pecking order. Additionally, Jurrien Timber’s versatility in defense and Ben White’s imminent return from injury have further limited Zinchenko’s chances.

Zinchenko’s ability to play in multiple positions, including central midfield, and his vast European experience make him an attractive option for Dortmund. The Ukrainian has won four Premier League titles, four Carabao Cups, one FA Cup, and started in the 2021 Champions League final with Manchester City.

Ben Chilwell: Dortmund’s Alternative

Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell, another player on Dortmund’s radar, has struggled for game time this season, making just one Carabao Cup appearance. West Ham United has also shown interest in the 28-year-old, with Chelsea reportedly open to offers for their vice-captain.

While Chilwell remains a viable option, The Telegraph reports that Dortmund is prioritizing Zinchenko due to his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.

Dortmund’s European Ambitions

Despite their domestic struggles, Dortmund remains a strong contender in Europe. The German side reached last season’s Champions League final and has secured a play-off spot in this year’s reformatted competition. Zinchenko’s experience at the highest levels of European football could provide a significant boost to Dortmund’s ambitions.

Share Your Thoughts!

Do you think Borussia Dortmund should push for Oleksandr Zinchenko, or would Ben Chilwell be a better fit for their defensive needs? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion!