"We are open..." - Shakhtar CEO's latest Mudryk update is positive news for Arsenal supporters

The 21-year-old is the Gunners' priority target in the January transfer window, with Mikel Arteta keen to add another winger to his squad as competition for Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

That need was strengthened with news of Gabriel Jesus's knee injury, which he suffered on World Cup duty with Brazil. The forward has undergone surgery, and will miss several months of action.

The Athletic revealed that Arsenal submitted an initial bid of €40 million, plus €25 million in add-ons, for Mudryk, but that this was turned down by Shakhtar.

David Ornstein then added that the selling club wanted €100 million for one of their star players, but believed that figure could be negotiated to a lower number.

He said (via Fabrizio Romano): "Talks for Mudryk are on. We receive offers, but not the ones we would like to see on our table.

Shakhtar's transfer record currently stands at the £47 million Manchester United paid to sign Brazilian midfielder Fred, with any Mudryk deal smashing that particular figure.

Club director and former defender Darijo Srna has spoke of the need for Shakhtar to be shown 'respect' in the transfer market, meaning Gunners fans may have to stay patient as their club negotiates what both sides deem to be a respectable fee.