Pundit suggests Newcastle will beat Arsenal to Mykhaylo Mudryk signing after source's reveal
Frank McAvennie has backed Newcastle United to sign Mykhaylo Mudryk from Shakhtar Donetsk ahead of Arsenal.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former West Ham striker said other clubs in Europe will be interested in the 21-year-old.
On Wednesday (26 October), sources told Football Insider that the forward is open to joining the Magpies next year as they line up a mega-money offer.
Eddie Howe's side are among many clubs keeping close tabs on Mudryk, including high-flying Arsenal, and Newcastle sent their scouts to watch him against Celtic in their Champions League match on Tuesday (25 October).
The Ukraine international is keen on a move to the English top flight but could wait until the summer if Shakhtar make the last 16 of the Champions League.
On Thursday (27 October), sources told this site that Newcastle have made it a priority to sign a wide forward in the winter window, with Mudryk high on their list.
When asked if he could see the winger making a move to St James' Park ahead of a rival like Arsenal, McAvennie told Football Insider: "God yeah.
"He is so quick. You can tell he is not fit enough because he blew a gasket, he was absolutely knackered [against Celtic].
"Talent-wise, absolutely. Nobody likes pace running at you, nobody likes it when people run at you. He is a good player, definitely.
"There will be other clubs in Europe but I could see him going to Newcastle ahead of the others. If he knows anything about football. Somebody will tell him they are on the up."