Arsenal 'really appreciate' Mykhaylo Mudryk and could swoop in January after holding discussions with the Shakhtar Donestk sensation's representatives over a potential switch to the Emirates Stadium, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

Having spent close to £120million during the summer window, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta will be handed another opportunity to bolster his squad at the turn of the year.

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What's the latest news involving Mudryk?

According to The Athletic, Shakhtar have attempted to fend off suitors and potential bidders by increasing Mudryk's price tag to close to £88million.

The report suggests Arsenal, Manchester City, Newcastle United and Paris Saint-Germain are keeping tabs on the eight-cap Ukraine international's situation, while Brentford, Everton and Bayer Leverkusen made approaches during the summer.

Romano has revealed that Arsenal held ‘very positive contacts’ with Mudryk’s representatives ahead of the most recent window's deadline and they consider Shakhtar’s talisman to be a ‘top talent’.

The 21-year-old has already confirmed that he would be interested in joining the Gunners as, in a video interview released in September, he admitted he 'can’t say no' to a winter move to north London.

But Arsenal are not the only Premier League side mulling over whether to swoop in January as Newcastle have reportedly made preliminary moves ahead of a potential switch.

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 Arsenal are looking to do business if they feel their targets would fit seamlessly into Arteta's squad.

The respected Italian journalist is aware that the Gunners are huge admirers of Mudryk and Shakhtar's asking price has increased dramatically.

Romano told GIVEMESPORT: "They will sign players if they are the right players for Arsenal's project in January.

"We know they're following Mykhaylo Mudryk. He is a player they really appreciate and he's a winger they really like.

"They had contacts with his agents for a long time because - last summer - they wanted Mudryk, but they never negotiated with Shakhtar as they knew they wanted more than €40-45million. Now they want way more than that."

Why have Shakhtar increased Mudryk's price tag?

Mudryk has been a serious threat in the attacking third of the pitch this season, grabbing 16 goal contributions in as many appearances, so it should not come as a surprise that Shakhtar have upped their financial expectations ahead of the January transfer window.

The winger, who has won silverware during his time with his current employers, has also shone in the Champions League.

Mudryk is leading the way for goals and assists among his team-mates in the competition, while he also boasts an average match rating of 6.93.

He found the back of the net every 173 minutes in the Champions League group stage, which is no mean feat, and Arsenal should pounce in January.

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