European club ‘lead the race’ for £50m-rated Newcastle United and Arsenal transfer target

Newcastle United will have to see of significant competition if they are to land highly-rated Ukraine winger Mykhalo Mudryk.

The Magpies have been widely reported as one of the frontrunners in the race to sign one of European football’s up and coming star during the January transfer window.

The likes of Arsenal, Brentford and Everton have also been linked with a move for Shakthar Donetsk star, who is believed to be rated at around £50m by his club.

Shakthar director of football Darijo Srna revealed just how highly the Ukrainian club rate Mudryk recently, telling CBS Sports: “Mudryk is a serious talent.

“After Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Junior, he’s the best player in Europe in his position.

“If someone wants to buy Mudryk they must spend a lot of money and respect our club and president.”

Speaking about a possible move to England, Mudryk seemed to give the Premier League quartet some hope that a switch could be made in the near future.

He told The Times: “Yes, yes, it is possible.

“The Premier League is the best league in the world and everyone wants to play in this league.”

“I appreciate it (being discussed by Premier League supporters), but I must improve a lot of moments because I think I can play better.

“I’m only at maximum 20 per cent of my potential.”

Sevilla and Bayer Leverkusen are also understood to be monitoring the winger - but The Sun have reported French club Nice ‘lead the chase’ to secure his signature in January.

The report suggests Nice are willing to pay around £25m for Mudryk, but will also factor in a number of add-ons to try and tempt Shakthar to allow their prize asset to depart.