Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on Arsenal’s pursuit of Shakhtar Donetsk star Mykhaylo Mudryk.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, the transfer guru said that there are ‘conversations ongoing’ between the club and those close to the Ukrainian, but ‘no official bid to Shakhtar’ has been made as of yet.
The Athletic reported back in November that Shakhtar want €100m (£86.2m) for the 21-year-old, with many clubs interested, including rivals Manchester United.
And Romano believes that the player, made the step up from Shakhtar’s reserve side to the first team back in January 2021, would be keen to join the Gunners.
He stated: “At the moment, there is still no official bid to Shakhtar. There are conversations, Arsenal are in direct contact with people close to the player, but there is still no official bid as Shakhtar insist in public for a €100m fee. In reality, they could accept something less than this, but it is important now for Arsenal to understand the final price tag.
“There are conversations ongoing, but we know the player would be keen on the move. Mudryk would love to join Arsenal, but it is not time yet to say [there is] something advanced between clubs.”
TIF Thoughts on Romano’s comments…
We believe that Mudryk would be an exciting signing for Arsenal, however, the current price tag would be an extortionate fee.
If the Gunners could get him at a lower price, they should definitely go in for the player, especially as it’s clear he’s attracted to the idea of signing for them.
The Ukrainian boasts some extremely impressive stats in the Premier Liga so far this season. Mudryk has 13 goal contributions from 12 league appearances.
He’s also been one of the best dribblers and goalscorers across Europe over the past year in his position. Mudryk is in the top 1% for non-penalty goals scored and the top 6% for dribbles completed when compared to other midfielders in the top five leagues and European competitions (as per FBref).
He may be only 21 years old, but the player already has nine caps for Ukraine at international level, making his debut in June.
We think Arsenal should definitely keep their eyes firmly locked on Mudryk. With talent like that at such a young age, interest will only grow, the longer he stays at Shakhtar.