Arsenal to duke it out with Everton for Ukrainian star
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With some big changes expected at Arsenal this summer, Arsene Wenger is in for a busy off-season as he bids to make his side serious contenders at home and abroad next term.
The latest man to be linked with a move to the Emirates is Dynamo Kyiv and Ukraine hotshot Andriy Yarmolenko, with his winning goal in Monday’s friendly with Wales the latest evidence of his talent.
Arsenal and Everton are reportedly in the hunt to grab the 26-year-old’s signature, and he has even received encouragement from his national boss to make a move to English shores.
Ukraine coach Mykhaylo Fomenko said of the forward: “If he is wanted by the top English clubs, then, yes, he can show his best in the Premier League and he must do this:”
Yarmolenko has netted at least 10 times in each of his last six seasons with Kyiv in the Ukrainian Premier League, and his current tally of 10 from 17 puts him on course to beat his personal best of 14 from last season.
The-Russian born ace has totalled over 100 goals in under 290 games for his club, and has been a regular on the Europa League and Champions League scene across the last six years.
With 23 goals in 57 international appearances, the forward is set to feature heavily this summer as Ukraine head into Group C alongside Germany, Poland and Northern Ireland.
It’s not hard to see the winger slot in nicely to either of the wide positions in Wenger’s attacking trio behind the front man, but if they are to sign the Ukrainian, he won’t come cheap.
Valued by transfermarkt.co.uk at just under £19m, Kyiv will be expecting a sizeable fee before they consider selling one of their star men, with Yarmolenko’s current contract running until 2020.
Throw in an impressive performance or two at the Euros however, and his stock – and value – will rise yet more, so it may be wise for Wenger to make a move sooner rather than later.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
