Arsenal's lengthy pursuit of Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhailo Mudryk is still ongoing, as the Gunners look to agree a fee below their asking price, and Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the club want to pay in a structure that involves bonuses and add-ons.

What's the word?

Shakhtar have publicly stated that they would like a fee of around €100m (£88m) to part ways with their star player, but Arsenal have no intention of paying this figure upfront.

The 22-year-old is highly coveted by Mikel Arteta as he looks to strengthen his attack in the January window, but the current asking price is too high for such an inexperienced player.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano confirmed that negotiations are ongoing as Arsenal do not want to pay this fee upfront, but are willing to structure a deal in a large overall package which includes bonus clauses and add-ons with a lower initial fee.

"Arsenal want to sign Mudryk, but not for guaranteed €100m," he stated.

"This is why they are speaking about the potential package. It's true that they are discussing about bonuses, the potential future percentage.

"There are some details to discuss between clubs, but at the moment, Arsenal have no intention to match the full €100m package. This is why the negotiation is still ongoing."

Inevitable?

Given that the player has shown his immense desire to move to north London and that Arsenal have been in constant negotiations for some time now, there is a feeling that the deal will eventually happen in this window.

Mudryk's value may never be higher at Shakhtar following some outstanding performances in the Champions League group stages, and receiving a large fee for the 22-year-old now could give their finances a major boost.

Arsenal may be more desperate for the player now, as despite being a long-term signing, he could give Arteta's side a major boost in the title race with the Gunners currently top of the Premier League.

If negotiations continue until a later stage of the window, then Arsenal may be forced to pay a higher initial fee, although the player's desire to join the club could yet swing things in their favour.