Dragging a Transfer Through The Mudryk

The Mudryk saga was the perfect example of how modern transfers have fixated the majority of football fans.

Social media offered a front row seat into the normally concealed approaches from clubs, as ‘experts’ revealed our club had been in talks with Shakhtar Donetsk to sign the winger – who was fresh out of the box.

Meaning, he had very little under his belt in terms of playing time.

We watched as Mudryk responded to multiple Gunners-related posts with thumbs up and he made it abundantly clear that his desired destination was The Emirates.

Chelsea, as usual, appeared in the distance, lurking around yet another target of ours, waiting with fistfuls of cash to lure Mudryk.

But that wouldn’t happen of course. Mudryk was an Arsenal fan.

From what looked like a promising position, we slipped into Mudryk’s rearview mirror as he zoomed toward the filthy lucre offered by Todd Boehly and Chelsea.

Looking at Chelsea’s outlay since the American took over at the club – their outlay has dwarfed any in history. It’s a huge spend, but it outlines Chelsea’s drive to get back to where they once were – which is back at the top.

And looking at Mudryk’s u-turn, we have escaped signing a player who feigned loyalty in place of filling his pockets.

As I write, we have just signed Leandro Trossard of Brighton – the Belgian who has been outcast by Seagulls boss Roberto De Zerbi.

Let’s look at the numbers.

From 17 games played this season (at the time of writing), Trossard has bagged seven and assisted 3. A good ratio.

Last season he played 35 games in all, grabbed eight goals and assisted three. Not so solid, but a decent return.

The drawback would be his attitude at Brighton, which according to some Seagulls fans, is not exactly dedicated.

Inconsistent, not dedicated to the cause – Trossard has some question marks over his head.

On the other hand, he’s proved, in an inferior team, he is a game-changer. His talent isn’t in question – and we sorely needed reinforcing.

Will his addition help us in terms of squad depth? Sure. He’s an upgrade on Nelson – also currently injured right now – and can play across the forward line. He has a great touch and if he applies himself to the Arteta plan – he can certainly help us.

Are we solidifying in the right area? That all depends – some, myself included, think that we would be better served buying a player who can fill in adeptly when Partey or Xhaka get suspended or crocked.

But with games coming thick and fast and teams sitting back, the ability to switch up tactics from the bench is a big plus. So Trossard could be a masterstroke.

Meanwhile, Mudryk has joined Chelsea – and looks thrilled about it.