Arsenal continue to be linked with a move for a European superstar, with the latest reports suggesting that they must pay what is being demanded.

What’s the latest?

That’s according to former Shakhtar Donestk defender Oleksandr Sopko, who spoke to Footboom (via Sport Witness) on the recent rumours linking the Gunners with a move for Mykhailo Mudryk.

He claimed: “Shakhtar have considerable experience in this matter, know how to sell players and know it's a turning point, the moment when you can agree on a certain amount. I think that Mudryk needs to trust the club and not make any statements.”

“Football players like Mudryk are an exclusive product. He is very expensive. First of all, because such a player usually significantly affects the game, is able to do something extraordinary, create a miracle. Therefore, the club that wants to buy Mykhaylo must understand that the sum will have to be paid a substantial amount.”

Having already demanded a fee of around €100m (£88m) for the winger, it is clear that the Ukrainian club will not be moved on their stance.

Mudryk could secure Arsenal the title

With Mikel Arteta's side currently mounting an unexpected push for the Premier League title, this move could be the catalyst which truly allows them to secure that illustrious piece of silverware.

It is a trophy which has not graced the north London since the Gunners' legendary 2003/04 campaign, and with five points currently separating them from Manchester City, belief has re-entered the Emirates Stadium once again.

However, with the injury to Gabriel Jesus, there is a worry that they may struggle from a lack of firepower. The Brazilian had proved an instant hit for Arteta, having scored five goals and set up a further six in 14 league games.

Therefore, the potential deal for Mudryk could become even more paramount in maintaining their long-awaited title charge.

The 22-year-old has been starring this season for Shakhtar, boasting ten goals and eight assists in 18 games across all competitions, including the Champions League.

This has seen him rank in the top 1% for non-penalty goals and the top 2% for assists among players in major European competition. He pairs this with a flair akin to other showstoppers under Arteta’s tutelage such as Martin Odegaard, and he also sits in the top 3% for dribbles completed (via FBRef).

His goalscoring exploits have drawn attention from some of the most elite clubs in Europe, yet it seems that Mudryk remains intent on a move to Arsenal.

Despite the astronomical fee being touted, this is a deal that Edu must force through to further bolster a Gunners squad in red-hot form. Doing so might just tip the scales in Arsenal's favour in the Premier League title race and get them over the line.