Arsenal told ‘privately’ Mudryk’s asking price has ‘doubled’ but they are ‘serious’ about ‘formal offer’
Arsenal have reportedly been told “privately” that the asking price for Mykhaylo Mudryk has “doubled” but they are “serious” about signing him in January.
Mudryk has been one of this season’s breakout stars as he had made a big impact for Shakhtar Donetsk domestically and in Europe.
The winger was involved in five goals in six games in the Champions League group stage. Overall, he has ten goals and eight assists in 18 outings.
Arsenal are in the market for a new winger and signing a new wide man is one of their priorities heading into January.
Mikel Arteta is known to be an admirer of Mudryk as the Arsenal head coach thinks he can turn the Ukrainian into a “more versatile” player.
Mudryk will not be let go on the cheap, though. His contract is not up until 2026 and Shakhtar director of football Darijo Srna has told CBS Sports’ Ben Jacobs that their player will cost “a lot of money”.
Everton came close to signing him for €30m in the summer but it has now been claimed by Shakhtar that they want €100m.
Despite this, Jacobs is reporting that Shakhtar would instead “entertain offers” worth around €60m.
“Sources say privately they will entertain offers of €60m+,” Jacobs tweeted.
“That’s double Everton’s offer last summer. Everton and Brentford were the two Premier League clubs most advanced and intent on signing Mudryk back then. Arsenal made enquiries but never bid. Now they are seriously focused on a formal offer.
“Contrary to some reports, nothing has been tabled just yet. But conversations are ongoing and advancing. Mudryk wants Arsenal so it’s now about whether a deal makes financial sense. Shakhtar are tough negotiators.
“Mudryk has spoken to Oleksandr Zinchenko about the club and is a big fan of Arsenal’s style. Mikel Arteta believes he can be turned into a more versatile winger, too.
“Shakhtar are braced – and have always been – for a winter exit, but hope Mudryk’s excellent Champions League form will get them the valuation they are looking for.”
Speaking about Everton’s attempts to sign Mudryk earlier this year, Srna stated.
“When our president doesn’t sell Mudryk for €30m in a difficult moment, he’s sending a message to everyone: ‘I want to be in the top level in the Champions League. I want to win the championship.’
“After [Kylian] Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, he’s the best player in this position.”
Mudryk is open to a move away from the Ukrainian side. He told Jacobs: “I am not the Ukrainian Neymar. I don’t like that nickname. I am the Ukrainian Modric. He [Srna] sees how hard I work every day. I just want to keep improving and in the winter we’ll see…”
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