Shakhtar Donetsk’s deputy sporting director Carlo Nicolini has confirmed Arsenal’s interest in Mykhaylo Mudryk, while also ruling Italian clubs out of a potential move.
Mudryk continues to be linked with a transfer to Arsenal, a move that the winger himself has repeatedly said he is keen to make.
The 21-year-old scored three goals and provided two assists in the Champions League group stage this season, further enhancing his huge reputation and intensifying links over a January switch.
The Gunners appear to be leading the race for Mudryk, with Nicolini believing clubs such as those in Italy do not have the financial resources to secure the winger.
“Many clubs are interested in Mudryk, but there weren’t official offers,” he told Calciomercato.
“In my opinion, Italian teams have not enough economic strength for a player like this.”
Shakhtar have suggested they will demand a fee in the region of €100m for the Ukrainian, though it’s believed they would likely come down from that figure.
While Arsenal see Mudryk as one of their top targets, Shakhtar insist he will report back with the rest of their squad after Christmas.
Nicolini said: “Today, Mudryk has been told, like all other players, to present himself for the training in Antalya on the 9th of January.
“There is interest from Arsenal, I cannot deny it.”
