Mykhailo Mudryk preferred Arsenal over Chelsea in 2023 transfer

Shakhtar Donetsk director of football Darijo Srna has revealed that Mykhailo Mudryk preferred a move to Arsenal over Chelsea during the January 2023 transfer window. According to Srna, Mudryk was impressed by a pitch from Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, but Chelsea ultimately secured the signing after presenting a superior financial offer worth approximately £88 million to €100 million.

Since joining Chelsea, Mudryk has struggled to meet expectations, recording 10 goals and 11 assists in 73 appearances. His career faced further complications in December 2024 following a positive drug test that led to a four-year suspension. After a resolution between the World Anti-Doping Agency and the Football Association, he was cleared to play and has since joined Tottenham Hotspur on a season-long loan deal featuring a £75 million buy option. Mudryk is currently sidelined with an ankle injury sustained during training.