Arsenal transfer news: Shakhtar Donetsk defender Mykola Matviyenko’s agent confirms Gunners interest

The agent of Mykola Matviyenko claims Arsenal have approached Shakhtar Donetsk over a deal for the 23-year-old defender.

Arsenal have made clear their hopes of signing a centre-back this month after Calum Chambers was ruled out for the remainder of the season, while both Shkodran Mustafi and David Luiz have been criticised for their recent performances.

Yuriy Danchenko, who represents Matviyenko, said: ”Recently, my colleagues and I have been constantly in contact with representatives of the Arsenal, and have had meetings.

“The Gunners’ hierarchy have already contacted [Shakhtar], and we hope that these negotiations will succeed.”

Matviyenko, whose contract expires in the summer of 2021, has attracted interest from a number of clubs after establishing himself at Shakhtar’s and in the Ukrainian national team.

Arsenal have also been linked with an approach for Bayern Munich’s Jerome Boateng, whose departure may be sanctioned by the German champions after the club completed the signing of Real Madrid defender Alvaro Odriozola on loan.