Mykhailo Mudryk: Arsenal remain in talks with Shakhtar Donetsk over winger and confident a deal can be done | Transfer Centre News

Arsenal remain in talks with Shakhtar Donetsk over the signing of forward Mykhailo Mudryk.

A gap in valuation for the player exists as well the payment structure of the deal – with reports suggesting Shakhtar have rejected Arsenal’s opening bid of around £55m including add-ons.

One source has told Sky Sports News there is cautious optimism a deal can get done with Arsenal thought to be encouraged by the player’s desire to join.

Mudryk was watching Arsenal’s game against West Ham on Boxing Day on TV and posted a picture on Instagram.

Arsenal wanted to strengthen forward line in the summer and went in for former Leeds winger Raphinha, who ended up joining Barcelona in a £55m deal.

The potential signing of Mudryk is seen as an ideal purchase for Arsenal – the Ukraine international is someone the Gunners have scouted for a while.

Mudryk is not, however, seen as a direct replacement for Gabriel Jesus, who is expected back before the end of the season.

The 21-year-old has scored 10 goals this season for Shakhtar – including three in the Champions League group stages.

Mudryk a special talent to push competition

Sky Sports’ Ben Grounds:

“Mudryk is a special talent. Anyone who has seen him play will realise the type of player he is. Direct and menacing with the ball at his feet, Shakhtar’s courageous attempt at navigating their way through the Champions League group stages ultimately fell short but their standout performer was Mudryk.

“He has played predominantly on the left-hand side for Shakhtar so it will be interesting to see if Mikel Arteta deploys him in the same position or as a No 10.

“Gabriel Martinelli has been performing so well on the left while Eddie Nketiah is proving a capable understudy to Gabriel Jesus through the middle.

“As with Liverpool’s pursuit of Cody Gakpo, this transfer provides Arsenal with variety to their attack. Their opportunity to be this close to a first league title since 2004 may not come around for another four or five years.

“Both Martinelli and Nketiah will be pushed by Mudryk’s imminent arrival.

“Arsenal wouldn’t have moved for Mudryk without having done their due diligence on the player and how he fits into the style Arteta wants to play, but with Arsenal in such a strong position in the Premier League, it would not be a surprise if this was the end of their January transfer business.

“The Arsenal board are reacting to the team’s strong position and the early move for Mudryk shows they mean business.”