Reporter Ben Jacobs believes that Arsenal are ‘heading towards agreeing a deal’ for Shakhtar Donetsk star Mykhaylo Mudryk. 

The Lowdown: Bid rejected

The Gunners appear to be on the search for a marquee attacker in the January transfer window after an injury to star striker Gabriel Jesus during the World Cup in Qatar.

Mudryk seems to be the main winter window target, with Arsenal recently having an opening offer worth up to £55m rejected by the Ukrainian side.

The 21-year-old posted on social media that he was watching Arsenal’s 3-1 win over West Ham on Boxing Day, and Jacobs thinks an agreement could soon be reached.

The Latest: Jacobs’ comments

Talking to GiveMeSport, Jacobs made a positive Emirates claim regarding Mudryk, believing that it is ‘heading towards Arsenal agreeing a deal’ where Shakhtar may receive a ‘preferable structure’ to a payment.

“Through a combination of things and a preferable structure as well, where Shakhtar get more of the money up front, they’ll feel like, potentially, they’re getting closer to the number they want and Arsenal will feel like they’re still getting Mudryk at market value.

“This is all heading towards Arsenal agreeing a deal. But because it’s Arsenal and perhaps not other clubs like Chelsea, for example, I still do feel that if Shakhtar continue to insist on crazy money, then Arsenal will walk away.”

The Verdict: Fingers crossed

Mikel Arteta’s side are heading into 2023 top of the Premier League but have an extremely busy second half of the season, meaning squad depth could come into play.

Therefore, with Jesus out, it could be crucial that sporting director Edu Gaspar brings in a new forward as soon as possible.

It seems as if Mudryk, who can play on the wing or in a deeper central role, is their main target in the final third, so hopefully, an agreement can be reached soon as we approach January 1.