Brighton boss De Zerbi backs Arsenal target Mudryk to win Ballon d’Or

Brighton head coach Roberto De Zerbi believes Arsenal target Mykhaylo Mudryk can win the Ballon d’Or.

Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mudryk is the Gunners’ top target for the January transfer window, with talks between the two clubs ongoing.

Premier League leaders Arsenal are reported to have had a bid of £57million (€64.4m) for the sought-after Ukraine international rejected.

De Zerbi knows all about the 21-year-old’s ability, having worked with him during his time as Shakhtar boss in the 2021-22 season.

The Italian thinks Mudryk could be destined to be the best player in the world.

Speaking ahead of Brighton’s clash with Arsenal on New Year’s Eve, he said: “Mudryk is a fantastic player, but Brighton can’t buy him.

“I like him, because I like all my ex-players. But Brighton can’t buy him, Arsenal, I don’t know.

“I think Mudryk can win the Ballon d’Or in the future. I know the value of Mudryk, he has the potential to win the Ballon d’Or.”

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta refused to comment on a potential move for Mudryk on the eve of the Gunners’ trip to face the Seagulls.