Arsenal have now been given some encouragement in their pursuit of one Europe’s best young midfielders, who could be available this summer.
Although Mikel Arteta and his team still have a lot to achieve this season, one eye must be on planning for next.
Edu Gaspar brilliantly executed deals for Kai Havertz and Declan Rice right at the beginning of last summer, and fans will be hoping for more of the same.
It was long thought that Arsenal would chase a goal-scorer for their next big move, someone who can improve on Gabriel Jesus (eight) and Eddie Nketiah’s (six) goal tallies this season.
Although Arteta’s side are capable of scoring from all areas, those numbers aren’t quite good enough.
However, Kai Havertz’s successful move to a false nine role has changed things, and perhaps a move for a striker will wait another year.
And that being said, Arsenal could perhaps pursue a midfield signing who could reinvigorate their squad, especially if the likes of Emile Smith Rowe and Fabio Vieira potentially leave.
Shakhtar Donetsk bosses would be happy to sell Georgiy Sudakov to Arsenal this summer
When considering who Arsenal might then target, Shakhtar Donetsk’s 21-year-old star Georgiy Sudakov springs to mind.
And according to The Standard, Arsenal remain interested in the attacking midfielder, and have been tipped to make a move.
READ MORE: All Mikel Arteta signings at Arsenal ranked from worst to best
Of course, Napoli did try to sign the 14-cap Ukraine midfielder in January, only to see their £34m bid rejected.
Shakhtar wanted £43m at the time, and weren’t willing to budge.
And ahead of the summer, this report details that Shakhtar would now be prepared to sell Sudakov to a Premier League side for £60m, a deal they believe will happen.
Of course, Arsenal fans are very familiar with this kind of saga, with the Mykhailo Mudryk debacle still fresh in the memory.
That deal demonstrates the risks involved signing a player from a league not considered to be one Europe’s best.
But fortunately Sudakov has proved his talent in the Champions League this season, and clubs will be alert to the ‘big chance’ of him making a move.
All that being said, it seems as if one Arsenal youngster needs to find a loan next season too.
