Chelsea are stealing our transfer targets again…

Chelsea are at it again, folks. Todd Boehly’s Blues joined the races for both Raphinha and Gabriel Jesus after the Gunners first registered interest last summer and now they’re keen on snatching Mykahylo Mudryk from us.

Mudryk is a priority target for Mikel Arteta this January as the Spaniard seeks to bring in attacking reinforcements this month. The 0-0 stalemate with Newcastle on Tuesday night highlighted the need for greater depth as Arteta made just one substitution and didn’t turn to his attacking options off the bench in a bid to turn the tide.

The Ukrainian international would be an exciting addition to the Gunners, and the north Londoners are desperate to strike a deal. However, Shakhtar Donetsk are digging their heels in and another contender for the winger’s signature has emerged.

Chelsea join Mykhaylo Mudryk race as Shakhtar snub Arsenal’s second offer

https://twitter.com/charles_watts/status/1610601781142208513

Arsenal have so far placed two bids for Mudryk, the latest of which was believed to be as much as £62m. Shakhtar, though, have rebuffed the Gunners’ most recent approach and are holding out for £88m.

The Ukrainian club are supposedly happy to negotiate, but a compromise between the two parties is yet to be reached.

The Gunners’ pursuit of the 21-year-old has been complicated by Chelsea’s interest in the player. Charles Watts reports that the Blues have opened talks with Shakhtar but are yet to make an official offer.

However, Miguel Delaney understands that Boehly is willing to trump any offer made by Arsenal for the winger and are more willing to match Shakhtar’s lofty valuation. Chelsea’s American owners have already spent a ridiculous amount of money since taking over the club last year and there are no signs of them slowing down anytime soon.

For Arsenal, there will undoubtedly be concerns about Chelsea’s financial might but reports suggest the club are still optimistic about signing Mudryk this winter. The player has his heart set on a move to the Emirates and the 21-year-old’s apparent adoration for the Gunners leaves the north London club in a strong situation.