Former manager turned pundit Martin Allen believes West Ham should consider signing Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko.

The Ukrainian international has been linked with a switch to the London Stadium, and as the player is in the final year of his contract, Allen told West Ham Zone that Zinchenko could be available for a pretty low fee:

“He’s played under Guardiola and Arteta, so he’s very comfortable in possession. He would be a good signing, but they’ll have to get Emerson out first. He’s got to be moved on with Aaron Cresswell also leaving.”

“West Ham fans will want to see Scarles given a chance at the start of the season so he can cement his place in the squad. I think Arsenal would take £10m for Zinchenko. He’s pushing 30, so he’d be someone on the periphery they’re looking to get rid of.”

Zinchenko would fill a problem position

The departure of Cresswell has left a gap in the squad on the left-hand side of defence. Ollie Scarles is more than capable of taking on some of the slack but reliable sources have confirmed that head coach Graham Potter has told Emerson Palmieri he can leave as well.

As Allen mentions, any bid for Zinchenko depends on whether the Italian international is sold. Lazio are said to be the team most interested in the fullback.

Will West Ham have competition for the player?

AC Milan have reportedly considered Zinchenko as a possible replacement for Theo Hernandez. The Frenchman is currently in talks to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.

If that move goes through soon, the Rossoneri may get the jump on the Irons in the race for Zinchenko. It is definitely a transfer story to keep a close eye on.

In other news, West Ham’s attempts to sign an Ivorian forward could “hasten the exit of Mohammed Kudus”