According to Sun, as cited by Talksport, Arsenal are vying for the services of Dynamo Kyiv playmaker Mykola Shaparenko. The Ukrainian international has impressed the onlookers with his performances and has courted the interest of several top clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United. However, any interested party will likely have to loan him back to Ukraine next season as the player would have difficulties attaining a work permit.
Shaparenko’s rise to prominence
Shaparenko initially joined the Dynamo Kyiv reserve side back in 2015. After impressing in the youth divisions, the youngster was promoted to the senior squad at the start of last year. He ended up making eight league appearances during the backend of the 2017/18 campaign.
However, it was last season when the young attacking midfielder truly managed to make his breakthrough into senior football. He was involved in eight goals in just 15 matches in the Ukrainian Premier Liga and scored two goals in the Cup as well.
The 20-year-old has already earned four caps for the Ukrainian national team and is expected to play a key role for the Yellow and Blues in the years to come.
What can he offer to the table?
Shaparenko’s style of play can be compared to Mesut Ozil. He likes to hover in and around the half-spaces, providing useful passes in the final third. But unlike the German international, the Dynamo Kyiv ace can offer mobility in attack and is always on the lookout for opportunities to get inside the penalty area.
The 20-year-old is also adept in taking on defenders, thanks to his quick feet. Also, he has a vicious right foot that explains his knack for scoring goals.
Should Arsenal make a move for Shaparenko?
Shaparenko seems like an interesting candidate as Arsenal look to reshape their attacking unit next season. However, the playmaker lacks experience at the highest level of football and is bound to struggle when coping with the fast-paced nature of the Premier League.
Furthermore, at the age of 20, he will also find it challenging to cope with the soaring expectations that can be associated with any Arsenal signing. Hence, the Gunners should drop their interest in Shaparenko and instead, pursue a more experienced yet cheaper alternative as manager Unai Emery look to operate with a slender budget this summer.
