Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk has said he would be disappointed if he doesn’t get a move in January, amid rumours of Newcastle United’s interest.
That’s what the 21-year-old told Ukrainian presenter Vlada Zinchenko, speaking in an exclusive interview about his future on YouTube.
A whole host of clubs across Europe have been linked with a move for the youngster, who is valued at around £50m, and the Magpies have been no exception. They have been previously touted with strong interest during the summer window, having said to be planning a move for the player.
Mudryk has now outlined what he is looking for in a prospective club, with the winter window just around the corner.
“From a purely theoretical/fantasy perspective, if there was the option of being a bench player for Real Madrid or a starter for Arsenal, I’d probably choose Arsenal,” he said.
“It’s a tough question and involves a lot of factors in my answer.
“I would first want to know from the head coach that even if I wasn’t a guaranteed starter, that I’d receive a chance.
“Essentially, I need to hear directly from the manager what he envisages my role to be in his side [to influence such a decision].
“The team’s style of play will play a role [in my decision]. It’s very important to me.”
When asked whether he’d be upset if he doesn’t get a move in January, Mudryk replied: “Yes!”
Mudryk wants a move in January
Having spoken at length about a move to Premier League leaders Arsenal, it is clear to see which English team the Ukraine international would favour.
However, if the Gunners are not willing to cough up Shakhtar’s desired fee, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the 21-year-old look elsewhere.
According to a report from the Metro this summer, Newcastle are preparing a £50m move for the winger in January. This ploy would look to see competition off from the likes of Arsenal, who are just one team in the queue to secure Mudryk’s signature.
Renowned for his dazzling footwork and explosiveness on the ball, the attacker has been likened to Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva.
Thus, with all the technical ability in the world, it is no surprise to see the Tyneside outfit interested in one of football’s rising stars.
Therefore, in January, the Toon should do all they can to lure Mudryk to the north-east. After a move failed to materialise in the summer, the winter window seems a certainty regarding his exit. As a result, this is the time to go all out to sign the youth prospect.
However, this won’t be an easy swoop with the level of competition involved.