Oleksandr Zinchenko's loan spell at Nottingham Forest could be cut short, with the Premier League club already eyeing a new left-back in the January transfer window.
Limited Opportunities Under New Management
The Ukraine international, who joined Forest from Arsenal on a season-long loan at the end of the summer window, has found playing time severely limited since the appointment of manager Sean Dyche. Zinchenko featured in just three league games in September and October before an injury sidelined him for the new boss's initial matches.
Although now fit, the defender has been named in only two Premier League matchday squads under Dyche – for the home fixture against Tottenham and the recent away trip to Fulham. His involvement has been largely confined to the Europa League, where he played against Porto and Utrecht.
Forest's Search for Defensive Reinforcements
According to reports from The Telegraph, Forest's hierarchy is actively seeking to bring in another left-back when the market reopens next month. This potential move directly threatens Zinchenko's prospects at the City Ground.
The loan signing was initially brought in to provide competition for Neco Williams, but the Welsh international has firmly established himself as the first-choice in that position. Furthermore, right-back Ola Aina, who can also cover on the left, is nearing a return from a long-term hamstring injury.
A Familiar Pattern for Forest Loans
This situation echoes recent history for the club. Last season, Alex Moreno lost his place after a loan move, while Arsenal's Nuno Tavares saw minimal action during a temporary stint at Forest in the 2023/24 campaign.
Despite the uncertainty, Zinchenko has expressed a desire to succeed at his new club. Speaking earlier in December, he said, "I feel amazing (at Forest). It is a big club with amazing people around." He added, "I really feel I need to give much more to the club."
A left-back is not the only priority for Dyche in January. The manager is also said to be keen on a reunion with Everton winger Dwight McNeil, whom he previously coached at Goodison Park. Meanwhile, players including Taiwo Awoniyi, Willy Boly, and Angus Gunn could be allowed to depart if suitable offers are received.
