Arsenal held further talks with Shakhtar Donetsk over a deal for Ukraine international Mykhaylo Mudryk this morning.
What’s the story?
Well, that is according to Sergei Palkin – Chief Executive Officer of the Ukrainian giants – who revealed that he had a new phone call with the Gunners scheduled for Thursday morning.
As quoted by Fabrizio Romano, the 48-year-old said: “Talks for Mudryk are on. We receive offers but not the ones we would like to see on our table. I’ll speak again to Arsenal so yes, we are open to discuss fee and ideas. If we will agree, then let it be so. If we will not, then let it be another time.
“Now, literally in five minutes, I will have a new phone call conversation with Arsenal for Mykhaylo Mudryk deal.”
By the sounds of things, Palkin is open to selling the Shakhtar Donetsk No.10 – but only for the right price.
Shakhtar Donetsk are said to want a total package of £80m to sell their talisman.
Interest from Mikel Arteta and Edu in Mudryk comes after the 21-year-old burst onto the scene this season, specifically in the Champions League, where he has scored three goals and provided two assists in six appearances.
In total, the Ukrainian wonderkid has scored ten goals and set up a further eight in 18 outings this term.
Arsenal have already seen a £55m bid rejected by Shakhtar Donetsk, but are now preparing an improved offer as they look to bring the rapid winger to north London – as detailed by the Evening Standard.
Arsenal may only get one chance to sign Mudryk
In our view, this is a tense situation for Arsenal.
Mudryk is also wanted by Newcastle and Manchester City, both of whom are able to pay huge fees, so there should be some urgency from Arsenal, although they must not be held to ransom.
If Arteta misses out, and Mudryk moves to Tyneside or Manchester, Arsenal may never get another chance to sign the precocious forward – not until his best years in football are over, anyway.
Be sure to keep an eye on this saga, as a second bid from Arsenal should soon be made.
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