Arsenal are showing firm interest in signing Shakhtar Donetsk star Mykhaylo Mudryk in the winter market.
The Gunners’ desire to add the winger to Mikel Arteta’s squad is already confirmed by the Ukrainian champions’ deputy sporting director, Carlo Nicolini.
Earlier reports indicated Shakhtar Donetsk have not accepted Arsenal’s first offer of €40m for Mudryk.
Three days ago, TuttoMercatoWeb reported the north London club have made a new bid which includes €40m fixed plus €20m bonuses. It was explained this won’t be enough as Shakhtar Donetsk are want €70m.
Chelsea have reportedly joined Arsenal in the chase for the Ukraine international, but he favours a move to the Emirates in January.
Footboom had a chat with former Shakhtar Donetsk defender Oleksandr Sopko to get his views on the ongoing saga around Mudryk. “In any transfer, the interests of three parties, the club, the player and the coach, must be taken into account, and if they coincide, then such a transfer is the best option,” Sopko said.
Nicolini has insisted his side value their star around €100m, while Arsenal are refusing to meet this price. Sopko was quizzed whether Mudryk is worth more than €60m.
“Football players like Mudryk are an exclusive product. He is very expensive. First of all, because such a player usually significantly affects the game, is able to do something extraordinary, create a miracle. Therefore, the club that wants to buy Mykhaylo must understand that the sum will have to be paid a substantial amount,” he said.
On whether the player is ready for the Premier League, Sopko explained: “Yes, he has matured, and it is time for him to change the situation. A new challenge in life is always important.
“He is at such a young age, when a footballer has not yet fully formed, that it is useful to change the team and the league, to move to the championship, where there is more tension, where you will be opposed by super players – the best, from all over the world.”
