Arsenal have received a significant boost in their search for a new winger after Mykhaylo Mudryk admitted that a move to the Gunners would be a "dream".
It's understood that Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu were initially planning to bring in a replacement for Nicolas Pepe, who moved to OGC Nice on a season-long loan. However, injuries to both Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny shifted the club's plans in the last 72 hours of the summer window.
In the week building up to deadline day, Arteta touched on the need for more attacking reinforcements in his squad. "We know as well where we are short, where we have to add more firepower. And if we can do it, we will do it," he said. The Spaniard also confirmed that Pepe's departure was part of plans that had been discussed, suggesting new wingers were actively being sought.
READ MORE: Arsenal have major 'advantage' in Mudryk and Kvaratskhelia race after Edu scouting mission
Ultimately, the pursuit of both a winger and a midfielder ended in failure after Arsenal had three bids for Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz rejected. Despite the overall level of Arteta's squad being raised, especially through the additions of Gabriel Jesus, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Fabio Vieira, worrying gaps remain.
Those gaps could mean that January is a little busier than usual for Arsenal, although as they have proven in recent times, they won't buy for the sake of it. Despite this, a perfect opportunity to secure the signature of a long-term target in the form of Mudryk has presented itself.
Speaking to CBS Sports Golazo, the 21-year-old refused to close the door on a move to the Premier League and specifically Arsenal when asked about their interest.
"I do dream (of the Premier League). I think every guy dreams about the Premier League," Mudryk said. "Arsenal is a very good team with a very good coach. I like the way they play. Yes it would be hard to say no from my side, I can't say no but the transfer is not only my decision and my word."
According to The Athletic, the Ukrainian international was discussed among Arsenal's recruitment team after it received glowing reports about his talent and temperament. It's added that contact was made with Mudryk's representatives, and a formal bid is thought to have been considered before the injuries in midfield were sustained.
Fellow Premier League side Brentford are also believed to be monitoring the player, who most recently scored one goal and provided two assists against RB Leipzig in the Champions League. Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Shakhtar Donetsk turned down bids worth around £25million for him last week and are instead demanding upwards of £43million for his services.
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