Arsenal remain 'interested' in Mykhaylo Mudryk and have been in contact with the Shakhtar Donetsk star's representatives ahead of a potential switch to the Emirates Stadium, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.
Although the Gunners spent close to £120million during the summer window, boss Mikel Arteta will be given the opportunity to add further reinforcements to his squad in January.
GiveMeSport Transfer Update
What's the latest news involving Mudryk?
Romano has revealed that Arsenal held ‘very positive contacts’ with Mudryk’s representatives during the summer transfer window.
The respected Italian journalist suggests the Gunners are still keeping tabs on the eight-cap Ukraine international and consider Shakhtar's talisman to be a 'top talent'.
But Arsenal are not the only Premier League club looking to strike a deal for Mudryk as Newcastle United have reportedly made preliminary moves ahead of a potential January swoop.
It comes after Shakhtar director of football Darijo Srna confirmed that Everton tabled an offer worth £26million earlier this year, but the proposal was rejected.
Sevilla, Bayer Leverkusen and Ajax are also understood to be mulling over whether to head to the negotiating table for Mudryk in the coming months.
Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know
What has Fabrizio Romano said about Mudryk?
Romano understands that Shakhtar are seeking up to £57million for Mudryk and their stance will not soften due to their determination to keep him on board.
The transfer guru is aware that Arsenal have been in talks with the winger's representatives and their interest is not going away despite his current employers' lucrative demands.
Romano told GIVEMESPORT: "Shakhtar are not selling Mudryk for €40million or €45million. They want around €60-65million, not less than that.
"It's not going to be easy, but Arsenal are still interested in Mudryk. They have contacts with his agents, so it could be an interesting opportunity for them."
Are Arsenal confident of winning the race for Mudryk's signature?
Arsenal appear to be Mudryk's favoured option as, in a video interview released in September, the 21-year-old sensation admitted he ‘can’t say no’ to a winter move to north London.
That will have given the Gunners, who have gone into the break from domestic football sitting top of the Premier League, a significant boost.
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’, so Arteta's side seem to be in pole position.
The sought-after star has registered 16 goal contributions in as many appearances this season and, with him being open to a move to the capital, Arsenal should pounce.
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