Arsenal had a strong start to the summer transfer window addressing both the forward and defensive positions, which clearly needed strengthening towards the back of last season. Despite a good start to the window, more acquisitions were still needed towards the end of the market, which will now have Edu occupied in the winter window in January.
Two positions seem to be the main targets for the Gunners, as Edu had reportedly been chasing players in the midfield and wing areas. It looks as though the Brazilian is prioritising the wide areas as Arsenal have been hot on the tail for Ukrainian winger Mykhaylo Mudryk since the end of the summer window.
However, the Ukrainian’s successful exploits in the Champions League mean Arsenal must prepare to do battle with other top clubs to secure his signature. To put themselves in the best position, it is crucial that Mikel Arteta’s side are in pole position to qualify for the European elite competition to avoid the Raphinha repeat in the summer transfer window.
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Arsenal’s summer transfer window of incomings slowed down after losing out on Raphinha to Barcelona. The Gunners seemed to have the edge on signing the Brazilian until Chelsea attempted to hijack a potential deal, but the winger ultimately decided to join Barcelona. If the Gunners had Champions League football to offer, then they would have had an extra advantage in the negotiation process.
The same situation must not be repeated with Mudryk from Shakhtar Donestk. The winger has had a phenomenal start to the season by scoring two goals and also assisting on one occasion in the opening two matches of the Champions League group stage.
According to Ukrainian news outlet football24tv, Arsenal held talks with Mudryk’s agents and were interested in signing the player in the summer. The report went on to say that Shakhtar Donetsk are asking for €35million (£30million).
Amid such interest in Mudryk, it appears as though the youngster is very open to a move to Arsenal, who seemingly need more depth in their wide areas. Speaking to CBS Sports, he said: "I think every guy dreams about the Premier League. It's hard to say [who his preferred move is] but Arsenal is a very good team, very good coach, I like the way they play."
When asked if he would make a move to the Emirates Stadium he said: "From my side, I can't say no [to Arsenal]. But the transfer is not only my decision."
The Gunners seem to currently be in a strong position to sign the promising winger. And to maintain this position if rival clubs begin to register interest, then it is important that Arteta has his side in pole position to qualify for the Champions League by the time the winter window opens.
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