Arsenal transfer target Mykhaylo Mudryk has been likened to Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe and Real Madrid talent Vinicius Junior.
Mikel Arteta was keen to add a new winger to his squad before deadline day but technical director Edu was unable to secure a deal after the Ukrainian outfit slapped a £50million price tag on the 21-year-old.
Mudryk revealed that he 'couldn't say no' to the north London side if they were to make an official bid for his services as he continues to impress. Arsenal are said to have identified Villarreal winger Alex Baena as a potential alternative to the Ukraine international should Shakhtar refuse to lower their asking price.
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The 21-year-old admitted to idolising Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in a recent interview with The Times whilst Darijo Srna, Shakhtar’s director of football, compared Mudryk to the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior. Srna told CBS Sports: “Mudryk is a serious talent.
"After Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Junior, he’s the best player in Europe in his position. If someone wants to buy Mudryk they must spend a lot of money and respect our club and president.”
Srna went on to reveal that Everton made a £26.1 million bid, just over half of what Shakhtar were demanding in the summer transfer window. Mudryk's current deal with the Ukrainian side runs out in 2026 meaning Shakhtar have little incentive to sell one of their prized assets which could mean the Gunners are forced into paying the £50million asking price if they wish to sign the 21-year-old.
Speaking to CBS Sports, Mudryk said: "My dream is to play in Premier League, of course. Arsenal is a very good team, very good manager - so from my side, I can’t say no to Arsenal!"
The Ukraine international fits in with the Gunners' profile having already played for his country and performing well in the UEFA Champions League, whilst still being young enough to develop into an even better player in the future. Arteta will be hoping Edu can work his magic in the upcoming transfer windows to strengthen key areas, such as midfield and attack, as Arsenal look to secure Champions League qualification for the first time in six years.
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