According to BBC Sport, Nottingham Forest are seriously considering terminating Oleksandr Zinchenko’s loan spell from Arsenal midway through the season. Club officials are debating whether an early exit may be the best solution for all parties. A return to Arsenal is not straightforward, as the Gunners’ squad for the second half of the season is already full and they have made significant additions in the left-back department, making Zinchenko’s reintegration structurally difficult.

There is no break clause in Oleksandr Zinchenko’s loan to Nottingham Forest, according to The Sun. It has been reported that Forest may seek to end Zinchenko’s stay at the club early. Arsenal also have a full squad that would be unable to accommodate the left-back returning. Zinchenko's contract is due to expire in the summer, and he is expected to leave the Gunners when his deal ends.

Ukrainian international Oleksandr Zinchenko, aged 28, arrived at the City Ground from Arsenal on loan on deadline day. Nottingham Forest have no obligation to purchase the player in 2026. Although Zinchenko has primarily played as a left-back in recent years, there are doubts about whether he is sufficiently strong in defense for new manager Sean Dyche's system. He could potentially be used in a wide midfield role, but if he struggles to find a suitable position, it is thought it would be an uncomplicated decision to send him back. The defender has 75 caps and 12 goals for his country. According to Transfermarkt, he has a current market value of €18.00m. Olympique Marseille and Fenerbahçe were also among the clubs linked with him before his move.