Mikel Arteta sends strong message over Edu and board backing amid Mudryk transfer decision

Mikel Arteta insists Arsenal is still looking for new signings this month, despite losing out to Chelsea for Mykhailo Mudryk.

The 21-year-old winger was Arsenal’s top January transfer target, but the Gunners were unable to agree on a fee with Shakhtar Donetsk, who were demanding £85 million.

Chelsea moved in after Arsenal refused to meet that valuation, with co-owner Behdad Eghbali and director of global transfers Paul Winstanley traveling to Turkey on Saturday to negotiate directly with Shakhtar before returning to London on their private jet once a €100 million (£88.6 million) deal was agreed.

Arsenal are now looking for replacements, with Barcelona’s Raphinha and Brighton’s wantaway midfielder Leandro Trossard both linked, but Arteta insists the Premier League leaders must be ‘disciplined’ in the transfer market.

When asked about Arsenal’s failure to sign Mudryk, Arteta told Sky Sports: ‘I am very proud of the players we have.

‘We’re always looking for ways to improve the squad. The club is the first to try everything possible to improve the players we have.

‘However, I believe we must exercise some discipline and be very consistent not only in the goals we seek, but also in what we are capable of accomplishing at any given time.

‘We can improve the players, so let’s focus on that.’

Asked if Arsenal have enough in their squad, Arteta said: ‘We had some injuries, some long-term injuries and this is not helpful but we can focus on tomorrow.

‘Train more, train more, and review the game. The door is open, and we will work hard to improve the team.

‘There are always a few parties involved. The club is willing, they have my support, and we will try to do it together.’