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Arsenal were linked with Mykhaylo Mudryk over the summer but a report has now emerged that Newcastle will join the race to sign the Shakhtar Donetsk star.
THE LOWDOWN: ARSENAL’S INTEREST
Over the summer transfer window, Arsenal had their sights on, Mykhaylo Mudryk, with the winger considered as a possible replacement for Nicolas Pepe, who left for OGC Nice on loan.
Still under contract at Shakhtar until 2026, the 21-year-old has already impressed in the current campaign, with two Champions League goals to show for already.
Arsenal’s links with the Ukrainian further heightened after the youngster admitted it would be difficult to turn down a move to the Premier League.
Speaking to CBS Sports, he said: “I think every guy dreams about the Premier League. It’s hard to say [who his preferred move is] but Arsenal is a very good team, very good coach, I like the way they play.”
When asked if he would make a move to the Emirates he said: “From my side, I can’t say no [to Arsenal]. But the transfer is not only my decision.”
Besides from being linked with a move to the Emirates, the 21-year-old has been linked with the likes of Everton and Juventus. His recent exploits have made Shakhtar hold out for over £50million to let him leave.
While it is believed Arsenal could move for the player again in January, another Premier League side are ready to join the race as well.
THE LATEST: NEWCASTLE JOIN THE RACE
Arsenal have been seen as strong favourites to land the Ukrainian winger, but Newcastle will be one of several teams they will have to beat to land his signature.
Former Tottenham goalkeeper Paul Robinson believes that it will be “a matter of time” before Mudryk leaves the Ukrainian side, but Arsenal face a battle to sign him amid interest from elsewhere.
“He looks like a real talent,” Robinson told Football Insider.
“To be putting in performances in the Champions League at his age says a lot.
“I’m sure there are a few clubs looking at him now. It is only a matter of time before he leaves Shakhtar. They cannot keep rebuffing bids. There will be a figure that they have in mind. Newcastle would be an attractive proposition.
“I think they could do with another top winger. Obviously, they have [Allan] Saint-Maximin but I’m not sure [Miguel] Almiron, [Jacob] Murphy and [Ryan] Fraser are going to get them to where they want to be. Mudryk is a player for now and the future. Howe is evolving that squad slowly. I think they will continue to develop over the next 12 months.”
THE VERDICT: NO NEED TO RUSH
Arsenal do not need to be pushed or forced to make a signing because of other sides. Admittedly, Mudryk will come in as a proper addition but there is no need to go all out to spend big money in January.
To go with, the player has already admitted it would be difficult to turn down Arsenal and that should mean if the Gunners are genuinely interested in the forward, sorting out a deal should comfortably happen.
