According to fresh reports from Turkey, legendary manager José Mourinho has officially given the
green light for Fenerbahçe to launch a move for Arsenal’s versatile left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko.
The former Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Manchester United boss is said to be a keen admirer of the Ukraine international’s technical ability, leadership, and experience at the highest level.
With Fenerbahçe aiming to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season, Mourinho reportedly believes Zinchenko’s arrival would be a statement signing that could instantly raise the team’s quality and tactical flexibility.
Sources indicate that Fenerbahçe have now stepped up their interest following news that Arsenal have reduced their asking price for the 27-year-old.
Initially valued far higher, Zinchenko is now thought to be available for around £13 million, a figure that has caught the attention of the Turkish giants.
The timing of the move is also significant Zinchenko has entered the final 12 months of his contract at the Emirates Stadium.
This means the Gunners risk losing him for free next summer if no agreement is reached for an extension or transfer in the current window.
While Zinchenko has played an important role in Mikel Arteta’s project since joining from Manchester City in 2022 contributing both defensively and in midfield build-up play injuries and competition for places have seen his influence slightly reduced in recent months.
Mourinho, however, appears convinced that the Ukrainian still has plenty to offer at the top level and could thrive in the Süper Lig, where his composure, tactical intelligence, and championship-winning experience could prove invaluable.
As things stand, negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days, with Arsenal weighing up whether to cash in now or keep Zinchenko as part of their squad for the 2025/26 campaign.
One thing is certain if Mourinho gets his way, Oleksandr Zinchenko could soon be swapping the red of Arsenal for the yellow-and-navy stripes of Fenerbahçe.