Transfer Talk: Shakhtar slap £86m price tag on Mudryk as Arsenal and City circle

Arsenal and Manchester City are among a host of clubs keen on in-demand winger Mykhaylo Mudryk, Shakhtar Donetsk's sporting director has confirmed. 

The Ukrainian, 21, is one of Europe’s hottest prospects after registering six goals and seven assists in 11 appearances in all competitions this season.

He impressed once again in the Champions League on Tuesday night, scoring a stunning equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Celtic.

As interest in the Ukraine international gathers pace, Shakhtar chief Carlo Nicolini has suggested Mudryk will cost more than £86million.

He told CalcioMercato: "Is €40m enough to buy him? We do not speak to these figures. Not even for €50m, we don’t even call the president to communicate the offer. We value Mudryk more than Antony of Manchester United, who cost €100m.

"Arsenal and Manchester City? They are two teams that have taken an interest in the player. But there are also other clubs that can spend right away.

"We are not obliged to sell. But in this team, he is the most decisive. If you want to take on certain players who make a difference in the top clubs, you also need the right money."

Manchester United and Newcastle are two other English sides reportedly eyeing a move for Mudryk, while Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked. 

In other news

The Athletic say United are monitoring Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa, 23, and Athletic Bilbao stopper Unai Simon, 25, as potential replacements for David de Gea.

New Aston Villa boss Unai Emery will be given extensive funds to strengthen his squad during the January transfer window, according to Football Insider.

The Telegraph claim Newcastle are set to offer in-form forward Miguel Almiron, 28, a new contract.