According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal are considering a move for Mykhaylo Mudryk. The Shakhtar Donestk winger has been attracting interest from the Premier League over the summer. Everton are also reportedly considering Muryk as an option, but their opening offer was turned down.
Arsenal Looking to Sign a Winger to Fit the Club Ethos
Keep an eye on top talent Mychajlo Mudryk. Everton had €30m verbal proposal turned down by Shakhtar Donetsk last week. ⭐️🇺🇦 #EFC
Arsenal have explored conditions of Mudryk deal few days ago — but just on player side. Many clubs want him, one to watch until the end. #AFC pic.twitter.com/ljYSeoIXKJ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 29, 2022
Comparisons to Neymar and Sane
Following two seasons out on loan in the 2018/19 and 2020/21 seasons, Mudryk had a real breakthrough campaign last season. Operating from both wings, the 21-year-old provided two goals and seven assists in 11 league appearances. His playing style has seen comparisons with superstars such as Leroy Sane and Neymar.
Although capable of finding the net, his stats show his primary currency is in assists. Pace and power make him a dangerous player on the counter-attack. His dribbling prowess and ball control allow him to commit defenders to a tackle. Once committed, his speed means he often beats his man or wins a free kick. He is also confident playing in tight spaces, making him effective in a possession style of play or a counter-attacking style. This versatility and flair at a young age are why he is attracting serious interest.
Mikel Arteta Will Not Go After Just Any Player
In recent years, Arsenal have committed to a new approach in the transfer market. With the appointment of Mikel Arteta, a line was drawn under the mistakes of the previous era. A conscious effort has been made to sign players who were not necessarily expected to make a big instant impact. It is more important they fit the mentality of the club. Rather than signing players in the peak years of their careers, younger players have been targeted. They are carefully scouted to ensure they will buy into the club. In the long term, the idea is they can build a squad with togetherness who can challenge at the top.
Last season started to show the potential of this approach, but an end-of-season collapse meant they missed out on the top 4. However, reacting in the right way and learning from these experiences will make the squad stronger. It appears this is working well, with the Gunners chalking up five wins out of five and sitting at the top of the Premier League.
Arsenal are looking to add a winger to the squad for more quality in depth and provide competition for Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Emile Smith-Rowe, and Reiss Nelson once he returns from injury. As a young player who is keen to learn, Muryk may be the ideal player. With established players ahead of him, there would be reduced pressure. He would be afforded the time to grow as a player under expert guidance. He appears to fit in with the current philosophy and could thrive in the environment that has been created at the Emirates.
Arsenal are yet to make an offer, but this is a situation to keep an eye on during deadline day.
To be clear: Shakhtar Donetsk have not turned down any verbal or official bid from Arsenal for Mudryk. They’ve never received any proposal from them. ⛔️🇺🇦 #AFC
Arsenal spoke to his agents 10 days ago but then NO bid.
€30m bid was from Everton last week — it was rejected.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 31, 2022
Other Premier League Interest
Everton are looking at options as they prepare for the possibility of Anthony Gordon leaving the club. Manager Frank Lampard stated recently that Chelsea have missed Everton’s deadline for the sale of Gordon, meaning the Toffees have less of a need for a winger. In a post-match interview following their draw at Leeds United, he claimed it is too late for Gordon to leave this window. If Gordon is staying, it remains to be seen if Everton would still go back in for Mudryk.
Brentford have also been credited with an interest in the situation. They are reportedly considering an offer, however, they would need to break their transfer record to obtain his services.
Interest in Mudryk is high. With three possible destinations by the end of deadline day, this is a story to keep an eye on as it could go to the wire.
