Arsenal interested in Shakhtar’s Matviyenko

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Mykola Matviyenko from Shakhtar Donetsk.

Matviyenko is a 23-year-old defender, primarily a centre-back who prefers to use the left foot, but he can also play on either defensive flank if required. This season he has made a total of 21 appearances in all competitions, starting 20 of them and nailing one goal and one assist.

Arsenal’s defensive woes have been clear for all to see throughout the season, as well as before, and with Calum Chambers set to miss the rest of the season, Mikel Arteta is likely to add to his ranks at the back. The Arsenal boss has seen Matviyenko in action as he sat beside Pep Guardiola when Manchester City faced Shakhtar in the Champions League, twice.

According to Sky Sports, the Gunners have been informed they would have to part with a sum of £30 million to complete the deal this winter, though the Premier League club would prefer a loan for the rest of the season.