Arsenal are reportedly interested in Shakhtar Donetsk starlet Mykhailo Mudryk ahead of the January transfer window.
The Gunners are looking to address the wide position in the squad, in order to add more competition and cover for Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka. They were interested in signing a winger in the summer but missed out on Raphinha, who joined Barcelona from Leeds United, and Mikel Arteta now wants his club to prioritise strengthening that position in the winter window.
Speaking on his YouTube channel (h/t The Daily Mail), famous journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that Arsenal have held ‘positive talks’ with Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhailo Mudryk, but the race is still very much an open one. After his recent exploits, Shakhtar now value the young Ukrainian at around £60m to £65m, Romano added.
Mudryk, 21, has become one of Europe’s sought-after talents after a blistering 12-15 months with Shakhtar Donetsk. He has been a standout performer for Shakhtar this term, impressing over two Champions League ties against Real Madrid and scoring in two games against Celtic. Plus, he has four goals and five assists in eight league appearances so far.
Having looked at his availability before deciding not to sign him, perhaps due to his €40-45m valuation, Arsenal could revive their interest in Mudryk when the transfer window reopens in the New Year.
Mykhailo Mudryk to Arsenal— Good option for Arteta?
Mykhailo Mudryk has been on the list of potential signings at Arsenal for some time now. Reports over the summer claimed Arsenal were keen on signing Mudryk but baulked at Shakhtar Donetsk’s valuation of their player. While Shakhtar have only upped their valuation, the Gunners seemingly could make a move for the 21-year-old.
A prodigious talent, Mudryk has sparkled in the Ukrainian Premier League and the Champions League, as demonstrated by his solo effort against Celtic, helping Shakhtar qualify for the play-off round of the Europa League. But the 21-year-old has opened the door over a move to the Emirates Stadium, and going by talents, he does fit Mikel Arteta’s style of play.
Mykhailo Mudryk will be seen by Arteta as an ideal player to operate out wide, whilst competing with Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Marquinhos and Reiss Nelson. He is more of a dasher on the left, always looking to use his pace, dribbling skills and direct approach to get past his marker.
Not only will the Ukrainian international add quality but could also help attract other big talents to Arsenal. If Arteta can get Mudryk into his squad in January, it would represent a massive boost to Arsenal’s title ambition.