Fabrizio Romano says Arsenal Mudryk talks could now be at 'key' point

Arsenal have hit the ground running in pursuit of Shakhtar Donetsk star Mykhaylo Mudryk these last few days.

Over the past few months, the transfer saga involving the Gunners and the Ukrainian has rumbled on.

Arsenal want Mudryk. Mudryk wants Arsenal. And Shakhtar want big money for their main asset.

Now, with the January transfer window open, the Gunners are working hard to seal a deal for the 21-year-old.

As per The Guardian, Shakhtar rejected an earlier bid from Arsenal of £35.5m plus £17.7m in add-ons.

On Tuesday, Fabrizio Romano provided an update on the state of play between Arsenal and Mudryk.

The transfer insider, writing on CaughtOffside, spoke of how much the Gunners are looking to offer Shakhtar now.

Romano also mentioned how Chelsea are monitoring proceedings but would only move if Arsenal talks collapsed.

“Arsenal’s new bid for Mykhaylo Mudryk is in excess of €50m (£44m) guaranteed fee plus add-ons,” wrote Romano.

“Sources don’t want to enter into details as it could be key moment of the negotiation.

“Arsenal are pushing, they are trying their best and the player is absolutely keen on the move.

“Chelsea also had contacts to explore the situation but they’d only act if Arsenal move will collapse.

“Arsenal remain the priority.

“For now, Arsenal’s focus is on Mudryk, but they could discuss the midfield situation later in the transfer window.”

Arsenal on the right track for top talent

Mudryk would certainly fit the bill at Arsenal as a young player with huge potential.

This is something the North Londoners have prioritised in recent years.

And the fact the player himself is so keen to join the Gunners speaks volumes to the stature of the club.

Signing the Ukrainian star would be massive for Arsenal’s title hopes as they currently lack depth across the front-three.

Eddie Nketiah has stepped up in Gabriel Jesus’ absence, but Arteta still lacks quality back-up options to both Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.