Arsenal set to profit as Oleksandr Zinchenko signing to set off transfer dominos

Brighton have turned their attention to Arsenal defender Nuno Tavares ahead of Marc Cucurella’s possible departure to Manchester City this summer.

After the sale of Oleksandr Zinchenko to Arsenal, a deal which has been completed save for an official announcement, Manchester City and Pep Guardiola are expected to look to replace him with Brighton’s player of the year, Cucurella, for whom the Seagulls are claiming £50m.

It is unclear whether they will actually receive the fee, with City not wanting to pay that amount, but all indications are that a deal will eventually be struck between the two clubs, with City making Cucurella their fourth signing of the summer.

Except: Manchester City are finally ready to open official talks with Brighton over Mark Cucurella, the offer is coming – almost complete verbal agreement reached on personal terms. 🚨🔵 #MCFC

Cucurella, has always been Pep’s priority this summer and City will now advance with the sale of Zinchenko. pic.twitter.com/pVBhTWNBVB

– Fabrizio Romano 20 July 2022

Brighton to return to Tavares

In contrast, if the Cucurella Seagulls lose to Manchester City this summer, they will turn to Arsenal left-back Nuno Tavares to fill the void in their defence.

Signed from Benfica last summer, Tavares enjoyed a mixed campaign last time, showing signs of quality but also plenty of inexperience to iron out.

🚨 Brighton have turned to Nuno Tavares as the successor to Manchester City left-back Marc Cucurella and want to sign him on loan for a season. Although Marseille is still interested, the “strongest possibility” at this time is Brighton. [@ojogo] #afc https://t.co/bzwnD0b1gG

– afcstuff (afcstuff) 20 July 2022

With Zinchenko shifting to North London, the South Coast loan will be a huge benefit to all parties. Tavares will be offered regular football, Brighton will get another talented young defender, while Arsenal will see his talent grow and test themselves on a regular basis in the top flight.

It’s a transitional domino with Arsenal firmly in the lead.

Read more:

One in, one out: Arsenal talent set for loan turns away as Oleksandr Zinchenko signs Arsenal contract

Tottenham transfer list of eight players after the arrival of Jed Spence