Arsenal have upped the ante in their pursuit of Mykhaylo Mudryk and 'held talks' ahead of a potential deal which would see the Shakhtar Donetsk star head to the Emirates Stadium, according to journalist Paul Brown.
Having spent close to £120million during the summer transfer window, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has set his sights on completing more business in January.
GiveMeSport Transfer Update
What's the latest news involving Mudryk?
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Arsenal have held 'very positive contacts' with Mudryk's representatives.
The development comes after Carlo Nicolini, Shakhtar’s deputy sporting director, told Italian media outlet Calciomercato that the north Londoners and Manchester City are taking a keen interest in their talisman.
Nicolini has also revealed that the Ukrainian giants value Mudryk at more than the £86million fee Manchester United paid for Antony during the summer transfer window.
Arsenal are facing stiff competition for the winger's signature as it is understood that Newcastle United, Sevilla, Bayer Leverkusen and Ajax are also mulling over whether to head to the negotiating table.
Shakhtar director of football Darijo Srna has confirmed that Everton tabled an offer worth £26million earlier this year, but the proposal fell short of their expectations.
Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know
What has Paul Brown said about Mudryk?
Brown understands that Mudryk is firmly in Arsenal's sights and they have opened discussions ahead of potentially lodging a big-money bid.
The journalist believes the eight-cap Ukraine international has an abundance of talent and Arteta will be hoping for him to make an instant impression if he heads to the capital.
Brown told GIVEMESPORT: "Mudryk is definitely on their list. They've held talks to sign him.
"He's obviously someone with huge potential, but he's only 21. He would be one they'd be hoping could fit straight into the squad but also fulfil his potential, long-term, at the club."
Is Mudryk interested in joining Arsenal?
In a video interview released in September, Mudryk admitted he ‘can’t say no’ to a winter move to Arsenal and that will be music to Arteta's ears.
Shakhtar goalkeeper Anatoly Trubin has also revealed that Mudryk’s links to the Gunners have become a source of humour in the dressing room, with his team-mates claiming ‘you’re already at Arsenal’.
All signs seem to point towards the north Londoners winning the race for the wide-man and that would be a huge statement of intent from the Premier League leaders.
Mudryk has scored eight goals and registered a further seven assists in 15 appearances this season, which emphasises why he is garnering so much interest and Arteta should move quickly to reach an agreement.
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