Arsenal are very much centre stage in the January transfer window as they continue to pursue a deal for Mykhaylo Mudryk.

There will always be transfer sagas going on, but few have played out so publicly in the past.

From Mudryk’s interviews and social media activity (liking Arsenal-linked posts) to Shakhtar making it clear they want a Jack Grealish-amount fee for their player, there’s certainly a lot to take in.

As things stand, both the Gunners and Chelsea are reportedly in talks over the 21-year-old attacker, as per 90Min.

Shakhtar aren’t making it easy for Arsenal. Their valuation of Mudryk is higher than what the Gunners have reportedly offered so far.

As per Sport Witness, earlier reports indicated Shakhtar did not accept Arsenal’s first offer of €40m for Mudryk.

Three days ago, TuttoMercatoWeb reported the north London club have made a new bid.

This includes €40m fixed plus €20m bonuses. However, Shakhtar reportedly want €70m.

Meanwhile, 90Min recently claimed Arsenal have offered a total of €70m, while Shakhtar want €90m.

Amid all the speculation and varying numbers, the key thing is that there hasn’t been a breakthrough.

‘An exclusive product’

Pundits and peers have also been having their say on the saga.

Footboom had a chat with former Shakhtar defender Oleksandr Sopko to get his views on the ongoing saga around Mudryk.

He believes Mudryk is an incredible talent and Arsenal should pay a high fee for him.

“Football players like Mudryk are an exclusive product,” he said, as transcribed by Sport Witness.

“He is very expensive. First of all, because such a player usually significantly affects the game, is able to do something extraordinary, create a miracle.

“Therefore, the club that wants to buy Mykhaylo must understand that the sum will have to be paid a substantial amount.”

Sopko also believes Mudryk is ready for the Premier League.

“Yes, he has matured, and it is time for him to change the situation,” he continued. “A new challenge in life is always important.

“He is at such a young age, when a footballer has not yet fully formed, that it is useful to change the team and the league, to move to the championship, where there is more tension, where you will be opposed by super players – the best, from all over the world.”

Source: dailylifeworld.com