Shakhtar Donetsk chief executive Sergei Palkin has confirmed “negotiations are continuing” with Arsenal over the signing of forward Mykhailo Mudryk.
The Gunners, who reportedly had an opening offer worth around £55m including add-ons rejected, are yet to meet the demands of the Ukrainian club, with the payment structure also being discussed.
Palkin said of Arsenal’s pursuit of Mudryk: “Negotiations are continuing.
“We receive offers, but they are not the ones we would like to see on our table.
“Now, literally in 5 minutes, I will have a phone conversation with Arsenal. We are open to negotiations, ready to exchange ideas and figures.
“If we will agree, then let it be so. If we will not, then let it be another time.”
Sources close to the deal have explained that Shakhtar view Mudryk, who has played just eight times for his country and is yet to score a goal in international football, as one of the top five wingers in the world.
Shakhtar believe he is better than Antony at Manchester United, who cost £86m from Ajax in the summer, and are using that as their benchmark in negotiations.
Another source had previously told Sky Sports News there is cautious optimism a deal can get done with Arsenal thought to be encouraged by the player’s desire to join.
