Arsenal 'identify' replacement for Oleksandr Zinchenko who rejected Chelsea but faces long wait

Arsenal have reportedly set their eyes on Feyenoord left-back Quilindschy Hartman, but may have to wait until next season to offer him a transfer.

The 22-year-old had attracted interest from Chelsea in January, but the player was reluctant to move mid-season as he tried to secure a place in the Netherlands squad for the European Championships. Europe this summer.

Hartman was in contention for selection until he had to undergo surgery on a knee injury sustained in March, which ruled him out of action until next season, and possibly until 2025. Mikel Arteta should look for a new left-back to usurp. Oleksandr Zinchenko this year.

The Telegraph believe Arsenal have added Hartman to their shortlist given his role in Feyenoord's league success last year and his continued form until their long setback. His rehabilitation following his operation means a summer transfer is now very unlikely.

Hartman said Feyenoord had previously indicated they could move once the season finished, after being prevented from moving in January due to interest from Chelsea. Arne Slot's move to Liverpool increases his chances of an exit in the next 12 months.

Hartman, who has two years remaining on his contract, was linked with Burnley last August amid reports he could be let go for as little as £17million. Its stock is believed to have risen since then, despite its setback.

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Speaking to ESPN earlier this month, Hartman spoke about Chelsea's winter interest in him, saying it lasted until his injury. “I think they don’t want me now, but they really wanted me, yes,” he said.

“It already started during the winter holidays. They came to Feyenoord, but at that time I didn't really want it myself. I had just broken through, started playing everything and made it to the Dutch national team. The European Championships have also arrived. It wasn't really about that.

“From Feyenoord it was also clear: in summer we are open there, but not now. In the last few months they (Chelsea) came back and really wanted me. Unfortunately, things turned out differently. Now I'm staying at Feyenoord, but there's a good chance it would have happened otherwise.