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LONDON. — Arsenal have submitted their first offer to sign Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhailo Mudryk, according to reports in Ukraine. 

It’s understood that the 21-year-old is Arsenal’s top target for the January transfer window, despite the knee injury to Gabriel Jesus which will keep Mikel Arteta’s leading striker sidelined for around three months.

Mudryk has emerged as one of the brightest young prospects in Europe and has attracted interest from several clubs following his impressive performances for Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League football this season. 

But Arsenal are keen to win the race for the Ukraine international and according to Sport Arena, the Gunners have submitted a “very worthy’’ opening offer to Shakhtar.

The Athletic subsequently reported that Arsenal’s offer for Mudryk is worth €40 million (£35m) up front, plus an additional €25m (£22m) in add-ons. 

However, the report claims that Arsenal’s offer still falls short of Shakhtar’s expectations. 

Speaking in November, Mudryk said he was “shocked’’ and “upset’’ by Shakhtar’s attempt to value him at €100m (£87.5m). 

“I spoke with my agent and I know that in the summer there were several offers for me from clubs in the top European championships, but the club decided not to let me go. I took it as absolutely normal, because I fully trust Shakhtar’s management,’’ Mudryk said. 

“You see, I treat the championship of Ukraine with all respect, but every football player has a dream to play in a top club and in a top championship — I am no exception.

“But I am 100 per cent sure that they are unlikely to buy a player from the championship of Ukraine for €100 million. Serhii Anatoliyovych says that the time will come. Maybe so. But I have my opinion that for such an amount, this time will not come soon, and maybe never. 

“After reading the interview of the director, I will not hide that I was very upset. 

“The amount of €100m puts a barrier for my transition to the top championship, which I so dreamed of. I can’t say that my dream was killed, but wounded, that’s for sure. 

“But I’m a professional, I’m a Shakhtar player, we have a few difficult games left in the championship, in which we must win, and I’ll do my best for that.’’ 

Mudryk got Arsenal fans excited after sharing footage of him watching his potential new club’s Boxing Day win over West Ham. 

During the game, news broke that the North Londoners had launched an initial £52.5million bid for Mudryk. 

The Gunners offered £35m up front with a further £17.5m in add-ons. 

However, it’s understood Shakhtar Donetsk want at least £60m for their exciting winger. — Metro