According to Ben Jacobs, Newcastle have joined Arsenal and Everton in the race to sign Shakhtar Donetsk wonderkid Mykhaylo Mudryk.
What’s the story?
Well, the Ukraine international began to make the headlines towards the end of the summer transfer window, when Everton submitted a late offer worth €30m (£26m) for his signature.
The Toffees failed with their bid, while Arsenal have been told to pay “a lot” of money if they hope to sign Mudryk.
Now, Newcastle – who certainly possess a lot of money – have joined the race for the Ukrainian.
Jacobs – a journalist for CBS Sports – claims that Sevilla, Bayer Leverkusen and Ajax are also tracking the Shakhtar Donetsk No.10 after his impressive start to the season.
Mudryk has scored two goals in two Champions League games so far, leading to Shakhtar Donetsk Sporting director Darijo Srna likening the forward to Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
The 40-year-old said: “Mudryk is a serious talent. After Mbappe & Vini Jr, he’s the best player in Europe in his position. If someone wants to buy Mudryk they must spend a lot, a lot, a lot of money & respect our club.”
Shakhtar Donetsk President Rinat Akhmetov is said to value his wonderkid at €50m (£44m).
Jacobs adds that Mudryk sees January as the ideal time to move, although Akhmetov remains firm on his valuation and will not budge – especially if Shakhtar Donetsk qualify for the Champions League Round of 16.
Newcastle, Arsenal & Everton have a job on their hands
In our view, it is going to be seriously difficult for Newcastle, Arsenal or Everton to sign Mudryk.
As aforesaid, the Ukrainian already has a £44m price tag, which is set to increase if he continues playing like he currently is.
Additionally, with so many top European sides also competing for his signature, it feels as if only a side in the Champions League will be able to acquire Mudryk, which rules out all three of the Magpies, Gunners and the Toffees.
However, an exception could be made for Arsenal in January, with the north Londoners looking on track to qualify for the tournament this season.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Mudryk looks set to dominate the transfer headlines ahead of January.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
