Watch: Fabrizio Romano outlines latest on Arsenal’s Mudryk pursuit
Fabrizio Romano has given a fresh update on Arsenal’s current transfer stance on long-term target Mykhailo Mudryk and how much it will cost them to strike a deal.
It’s no secret that Mikel Arteta is in the transfer market for another forward in January. The recent injury to star forward Gabriel Jesus is only likely to accelerate their pursuit of a new frontman.
Arsenal have been especially interested in Shakhtar Donetsk star Mudryk who has been in fine form this season with 11 goals. He has especially impressed in the Champions League with five-goal contributions in six matches.
Romano has confirmed that Arsenal have made an opening bid for the 21-year-old, but Shakhtar are likely to hold out for a bigger transfer fee.
The journalist explained: “Arsenal enter into the key stages of the negotiations to sign Mykhailo Mudryk, the Ukrainian star playing for Shakhtar Donetsk.
“There is no problem at all on the player’s side but the key point now is to reach an agreement with Shakhtar Donetsk. In the last hours Arsenal have made an official opening bid for Mudryk.
“[The] official bid is worth €40million guaranteed fee plus €20million in add ons so the total package is €60million [£53million].
“The feeling from what I am told on Shakhtar Donetsk’s side is that they will not accept to proposal. They want way more than this to sell Mudryk.
“They always stated in public they consider a player like Mudryk a player for €100million so lets see what Shakhtar will decide to do.”
Romano did claim that Shakhtar could be negotiated down from their lofty asking price and that Mudryk himself will consult his representatives over his next move.
Arteta himself has admitted that Arsenal’s January transfer plans have been influenced by their stellar start to the season. With Arsenal currently sat top of the table, the manager is keen on further boosting their squad.
“The planning of that period is extremely difficult. First of all because we know the January window, how special it is, the opportunities that you have, the short window that you have,” explained Arteta via Daily Mail.
“Once you get the player they are straight away competing, so there is not an adaption process.
“And obviously with the position that we are in right now as well, it demands as well another level of player – and that player has to be available. We will look at everything and let’s see what we can do.”
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