Mykhailo Mudryk has fueled speculation surrounding his future by liking a post on Instagram hyping up his potential link up with Arsenal’s clutch of exciting young wingers.
The Gunners explored the possibility of signing the Ukraine international in the summer but were unable to agree a fee with Skhakhtar Donetsk.
Despite Mikel Arteta’s frustration at failing to sign what he termed additional ‘firepower’ during the summer window, the Gunners have risen to the Premier League summit and opened up a five-point gap over Manchester City prior to the World Cup break.
As well as Mudryk. Arsenal also explored potential deals for Wolves’ winger Pedro Neto having previously considered tabling a bid for Raphinha, before pulling out of the race with the Brazil international intent on joining Barcelona.
With a genuine shot at the title, Arsenal are likely to spend again in January with Mudryk emerging as their No.1 target following his exploits in the Champions League which have further strengthened Shakhtar’s bargaining position.
The player, himself, is keen on a move to the Premier League and Arsenal in particular, as evidenced by his activity on social media where he liked a post flagging up Arsenal’s young attacking talent which also includes the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe who is closing in on a return from injury.
Asked last month, meanwhile, if he has been following Arsenal closely amid the transfer speculation, Mudryk told Vlada Sedan’s YouTube channel: ‘Yeah. I check on them on MyScore and know when they’re playing I can check on them.
‘I also watch them too. They are a very dynamic side, in general not just in controlling possession but also in scoring goals.’
Asked if the role on offer at his prospective new club would play a part in his decision, Mudryk continued: ‘From a purely hypothetical perspective if there was the option of being a bench player for Real Madrid or a starter for Arsenal, I’d probably choose Arsenal.
‘But it’s a tough question and involves a lot of factors in my answer.
‘I would first want to know from the head coach that even if I wasn’t a guaranteed starter, that I’d receive a chance.
‘Essentially I need to hear directly from the manager what he envisages my role in his side to be.’
Asked how he will decide his next club, he added: ‘The team’s style of play will play a role. It’s very important to me.’
Mudryk also confirmed that the role on offer and style of play are more important to him than the reputation and prestige of the club.
The young winger also touched on the interest in him over the summer, saying: ‘I spoke with two or three head coaches either directly or via a translator, they were Nice, Bayer Leverkusen and Brentford. When it didn’t work out I was a bit upset but as we can see now God’s plan is better than my dreams.’
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