"Chelsea will act..." - Romano confirms Arsenal face competition for January target as second bid submitted

Fabrizio Romano has claimed Arsenal face stiff competition for the signing of Mykhailo Mudryk from Premier League rivals Chelsea.

The 21-year-old is believed to be Arsenal’s No.1 transfer target in January. The winger has been one of the outstanding players in the Champions League, leading to his club, Shakhtar Donetsk, slapping a price tag of around £86million on his head.

However, Ukrainian outlet Sport Arena has reported that while a fee is yet to be agreed upon between Arsenal and Shakhtar, the Gunners have finalised a five-year contract with the winger.

Mikel Arteta’s side have already seen an offer worth around £55million turned down by the Ukrainian giants, but are now tipped to return with an improved offer.

The Premier League leaders will want to strike a deal quickly, however, with rivals Chelsea also said to be interested in the player.

Arsenal face competition from Chelsea

Transfer guru Romano has claimed that Arsenal’s second bid for Mudryk will be a fee of around £44million upfront plus add-ons.

The Gunners and Shakhtar are said to be in direct contact, though if a deal collapses Chelsea are also waiting in the wings.

Romano tweeted: “Arsenal second proposal for Mykhaylo Mudryk is close to €50m fixed fee plus add-ons. Shakhtar expected to make a decision, the clubs are in direct contact.

“Personal terms, never been an issue - Arsenal is player's priority. Chelsea will act if #AFC move collapses.”

Arteta wants to add further depth to his attacking resources.

Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli have been in exceptional form for the Gunners this term though have been made to start every Premier League game due to a lack of depth in wide areas.

Mudryk operates predominantly off the left and made headlines this season scoring three goals and claiming two assists in Shakhtar’s six Champions League encounters.