Premier League leaders Arsenal are one of only two potential destinations for the £85 million-rated Ukraine international Mykhaylo Mudryk should he leave Shakhtar Donetsk in the New Year, reporter Igor Tsyganyk tells Football Hub.
Mudryk’s future, Tsyganik adds, is likely depend on whether or not Shakhtar qualify for the Champions League group-stages again this season.
If they do, one of the Europe’s most exciting young forwards will to be rewarded with an improved contract. If they fall short, however, then Mudryk is destined to be on the move.
After proving beyond all reasonable doubt that he belongs at the very highest level – shining against Real Madrid, Celtic and RB Leizpig during this season’s group-stage – Mudryk has almost certainly outgrown the Europa League pond.
“Everything will be determined by whether Shakhtar qualify for the Champions League play-offs. If the team plays in the Europa League, then the chances of selling Mudryk will increase significantly,” explains Tsyganik.
“If they make it to the Champions League, he will need to be kept.”
Arsenal will battle Real Madrid for Ukraine star Mykhaylo Mudryk
The likes of Newcastle United, Leeds, Wolves and Brentford have all expressed an interest in the nippy winger of late. Everton, meanwhile, failed with a £25 million bid late in August (Fabrizio Romano).
But, with Mudryk’s price-tag going through the roof since then, Tsyganyk believes there are only two clubs who have a genuine chance of securing his signature.
“Mudrik is now the most ‘fashionable young football player in Eastern Europe. Real Madrid are really interested in him. Really,” Tsyganik adds. “Arsenal also. There has also been some contact and there are some informal conversations with the club.
“In addition, as far as I understand, Shakhtar are seriously considering the option of renewing Mudryk’s contract. There are three real options; Arsenal, Real Madrid and a new contract at Shakhtar.”
Mudryk, according to Shakhtar’s deputy vice chairman, is also on Manchester City’s radar. The 21-year-old, who has spoken openly about his interest in a move to Arsenal of late, will cost in the region of £85 million; a fee that would see him replace Nicolas Pepe as the Gunners’ record signing.
‘I’m no exception’
“I think that many young football players dream of getting to the top level. I’m no exception,” Mudryk says.
“I have a valid contract with Shakhtar. (But) of course, if there is an opportunity, I want (to play in) matches in the top championships. Bayern Munich are playing very powerfully and strongly. Manchester City always play great football.
“But I have great admiration for the style of Arsenal; a talented coach, young, individually strong players who play good and modern football.”
In all competitions, Mudryk has seven goals and seven assists this season. Arsenal are also tracking Yeremy Pino, Alex Baena (both of Villarreal) and Orlando City’s Facundo Torres. Jesper Lindstrom of Eintracht Frankfurt is another option.
“He fits in best with us at the moment,” explains Frankfurt coach Oliver Glasner, urging Lindstrom to stay put. “It is important for him to get minutes at the highest level.
“It is also the first time he is playing in the Champions League. When you switch to a big club too quickly, you can sit on the bench without getting minutes, and then you can’t improve any more.
“So I think he is the right place at the moment. And I also think that Frankfurt is the right place next season. And when he has proven himself for a longer period of time, then he can take the next step.”
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