Chelsea makes stunning promise to Shakhtar Donetsk in move to beat Arsenal in race for Mikhailo Mudryk

Chelsea have promised Shakhtar Donetsk that they will pay whatever it takes to sign Mikhailo Mudryk, with Arsenal’s second bid set to be rejected.

The Gunners have been keeping an eye on the 21-year-old for over a year and are desperate to add more firepower to their attack in order to sustain their hopeful title challenge.

Mikel Arteta’s need for more options was highlighted last night when the league leaders were held to a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium by Newcastle.

Without Emile Smith Rowe, who is still not fit enough to play for the first team, Gabriel Jesus, and Reiss Nelson, Arteta chose not to make a single attacking change against Eddie Howe’s strong side, leaving only Fabio Vieira, a nominal midfielder, and teenage rookie Marquinho as options.

Arsenal’s initial bid for Mudryk was rejected last week, and despite raising their offer to around £62 million, Goal reports that it is also set to be rejected.

The Ukrainian club believes Mudryk is worth more than £88 million and has cited the recent transfers of Jack Grealish and Antony as reason not to be undervalued by Arsenal.

Shakhtar are said to be willing to postpone talks until the summer, but director Darijo Srna is scheduled to visit London this week and meet with Chelsea before their match against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.

According to the Independent, Chelsea has informed Shakhtar that they would have no problem meeting their valuation and are willing to outbid their local rivals.

Mudryk is said to have already agreed personal terms with Arsenal and considers the club to be his first choice, having openly flirted with them in recent weeks.

Arsenal are said to be unconcerned about Chelsea sabotaging a deal for one of Europe’s most exciting young players, and they are confident of making him the first of two January signings.

The Gunners are also interested in out-of-favour Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix, but are unwilling to meet the Spanish club’s demands, despite the fact that the player is available for £8 million on a six-month loan.

Chelsea and Manchester United are both keeping an eye on the former Benfica striker’s situation, as both clubs are in need of a new striker.