Arsenal are said to have 'opened talks' with Shakhtar Donetsk and Mykhaylo Mudryk's representatives over a possible January transfer.
The Gunners are expected to be busy in the transfer window next month, with Gabriel Jesus potentially sidelined for three months following successful knee surgery. The Brazilian played a starring role in the north Londoners' first half of the season after his £45million summer move from Manchester City, with 12 goal involvements in 20 appearances in all competitions.
After being handed a fresh injury blow with Reiss Nelson last week, Mikel Arteta has hinted at potential business in the winter transfer market, revealing the club were actively looking to improve. "We are going to be active and active means we are looking to strengthen the team," he said.
READ MORE: Arsenal make Mykhaylo Mudryk transfer call after worrying Reiss Nelson injury update
"This squad still doesn't have the luxury of not maximising every single window and we have to do that because it's really important," Arteta continued. "But then we want to get the right profile, the right player and a player that really is going to impact the team and take us to the next level."
Arteta's comments come after multiple reports insisting that Mudryk had become a priority target. The Ukrainian has caught the eye of technical director Edu with his impressive outings this season, scoring 10 goals and assisting a further eight assists.
It's said that Shakhtar have slapped a price tag of around £87million for their starlet, but the value could be significantly lower should a deal be agreed.
Now, as we approach the opening of the January window, the Gunners have reportedly made their first move in acquiring Mudryk's services. According to CBS Sport journalist Ben Jacobs, the club are 'in talks' over a transfer.
"Arsenal have made the move on Mudryk in the sense that they are now in talks with both Shakhtar and Mudryk's representatives," he told GiveMeSport.
"The talks with Mudryk's representatives are easy because Mudryk wants Arsenal; the negotiations with Shakhtar are a whole lot harder."
Jacobs comments could prove to be accurate following Shakhtar director of football Darijo Srna's stance earlier in the season. The former defender claimed a deal will not be cheap, stating: "Mudryk is a great talent. There have been no contacts with any club yet. If someone wants him, they will have to pay a lot of money. Mudryk is our present."
READ MORE:
Kylian Mbappe's 63-hour message to William Saliba hands Arsenal boost ahead of West Ham
Gabriel Martinelli 'close' to signing new Arsenal contract triggers stunning Bukayo Saka theory
The three things that must happen when Arsenal face West Ham in Premier League return
Arsenal to avoid naming Mykhaylo Mudryk in Premier League squad if £40m transfer is completed
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: The latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
