Arsenal continue to be heavily linked with a move for Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk during the January transfer window.
Mikel Arteta's side currently sit on top of the Premier League table and the Spaniard has admitted that he is hoping to bolster his squad this winter. "We are really trying to improve the squad in every window," he said.
"We’re trying to do our best because we cannot waste any windows still with the squad and the numbers that we have. We will try."
READ MORE: Arsenal concerns over Mykhaylo Mudryk transfer eased after £72m misconception is disproven
However, Chelsea are also said to have entered the fray to sign the talented 21-year-old, with various reports claiming that the Blues are keen to bring the speedy wide man to Stamford Bridge this month. Even though Chelsea undoubtedly have more financial muscle than their London rivals, Mudryk's past comments on Arsenal make them much more likely suitors.
Below, football.london has rounded up all the previous comments that the Ukrainian has made on the Gunners to illustrate why the player clearly prefers a move to north London.
Arteta praise
Mudryk has admitted that he dreams of a move to the Premier League, singling out a move to Arsenal in particular. Speaking to CBS Sports, he said: "I do dream (of the Premier League).
"I think every guy dreams about the Premier League. 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."
Real Madrid comparison
During an interview with Vlanda Sedan, the wife of Arsenal fullback Oleksandr Zinchenko, Mudryk even admitted that he would join the Gunners over reigning Champions League champions Real Madrid. Speaking on YouTube, the youngster said: "From a purely hypothetical perspective, if there was the option of being a bench player for Real Madrid or a starter for Arsenal, I’d probably choose Arsenal.
"But it’s a tough question and involves a lot of factors in my answer. I would first want to know from the head coach that even if I wasn’t a guaranteed starter, that I’d receive a chance.
"Essentially I need to hear directly from the manager what he envisages my role in his side to be."
Arsenal watcher
Mudryk has made it no secret of his admiration for Arsenal, claiming he often watches Arteta's side when they are in action. "I check on them [Arsenal] in 'myscore' and know when they're playing I can check on them", he admitted.
"I also watch them too. (Arsenal are) a very dynamic side, in general not just in controlling possession but also in scoring goals."
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