Newcastle United may reportedly look to win the race for Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk during the January transfer window.
Despite alleged reservations over remaining within the limits of FFP, the Magpies broke their transfer record in August as they signed Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad.
That had seemingly led to the North East outfit having to reconsider other plans to make changes to their first-team squad over the coming transfer windows.
Newcastle have also endured an indifferent start to the new campaign, recording five draws and currently being on a six-match winless streak in the Premier League.
Nevertheless, according to the i, there is still a willingness to conduct big-money deals in 2023.
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The report claims that Newcastle will give consideration to spending in the region of £50m on Ukraine international Mudryk, who has emerged as one of the top prospects in European football.
The 21-year-old is currently starring in the Champions League group stages, already having two goals and two assists to his name from as many appearances.
In total, the wideman only had four goals and 12 assists from 31 outings for Shakhtar in all competitions, but he has caught the eye with his rapid development on the big stage.
Mudryk is now also regarded as a first-choice starter for Ukraine with seven outings being made since earning his debut in June.
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He is no stranger to interest from the Premier League with Arsenal and Everton also known to be admirers of his talent down the left flank.
When questioned on the Gunners and the Premier League, Mudryk told CBS Sports: "I think every guy dreams about the Premier League. It's hard to say but Arsenal is a very good team. Very good coach, I like the way they play."
Sporting director Darijo Srna followed those comments by telling the same outlet that the Toffees had failed with a €30m bid for Mudryk in the summer.
Reports claimed that Brentford were also interested in Mudryk, although their bid was said to be lower than that of Everton's.
Mudryk has a contract with Shakhtar until December 2026, leaving the club's hierarchy in a strong position when it comes to demanding an asking price which seems set to increase with each transfer window.
Darren Plant
