Arsenal deal for £88m star now ‘getting closer’ at the Emirates

Arsenal’s deal to sign Mykhailo Mudryk “isn’t done yet”, but it “will happen”, talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook has told GIVEMESPORT.

The Ukrainian international is believed to be Arsenal’s number-one priority, with Crooks insisting a deal is close.

Arsenal transfer news – Mykhailo Mudryk

It’s no secret Arsenal are keen on Mudryk’s services. Having entered the January window with the Shakhtar Donetsk winger as their primary target, Arsenal were knocked back from their pursuit, with a £57 million offer rejected by the Ukrainian side. It’s believed, according to The Athletic, that Shakhtar value Mudryk closer to £88 million.

The Premier League leaders then faced a scare in the early weeks of the window, as London rivals Chelsea emerged as a potential suitor, with the Blues trying to hijack the deal. Despite meeting with Shakhar’s representatives, Chelsea’s attempts appear to have failed, with Mudryk favouring a move to the Gunners instead.

There had been rumoured interest from Arsenal in the wantaway Joao Felix and transfer guru Fabrizio Romano told GIVEMESPORT that Mikel Arteta’s side were chasing the Portuguese forward, along with Mudryk at the same time. Ultimately, Felix chose Chelsea ahead of the Gunners, with Arsenal’s attention now focused on securing a deal for Mudryk.

What has Crook said about Mudryk and Arsenal?

Indicating an end to this particular transfer saga could be just around the corner, Crook told GMS that a deal between Arsenal and Shakhtar for Mudryk appeared imminent.

“Mudryk is Arteta’s top target,” reiterated Crook in an interview with GMS.

“He believes Mudryk can really add something in the second half of the season. And I was told last night that this one is getting closer.

“It’s not done yet, but it’s getting closer. I think Mudryk to Arsenal will happen.”

Will Mudryk be a worthwhile signing for Arsenal?

With the temptation of a first Premier League title in just under two decades dangling in front of them, Arsenal are looking towards reinforcements during the January window. A lack of squad depth has plagued Gunners’ campaigns in the past, with Arteta keen on making sure that isn’t the case this time around.

Despite only making his senior debut for Shakhtar in 2020/21, Mudryk has caught the eye in his 44 appearances since, particularly impressing during this season’s Champions League campaign. Registering five goal contributions in six matches, Mudryk’s performances helped Shakhtar finish third in a group containing Celtic, RB Leipzig and Real Madrid.

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