Arsenal in transfer talks to Shakhtar Donetsk defender Mykola Matviyenko with Arteta desperately needing reinforcements

ARSENAL are in talks with Shakhtar Donetsk over a deal for Mykola Matviyenko, according to his agent.

The 20-cap Ukraine international has emerged as a top target for Mikel Arteta as he looks to bolster his defence this month.

Arsenal have been heavily linked with a loan move for out-of-favour Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng.

The Gunners are also interested in RB Leipzig star Dayot Upamecano, but are yet to land any of their top targets.

Matviyenko’s agent, Yuriy Danchenko, has insisted Arteta’s side have turned their attention to the 23-year-old.

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He told Ukrainian media: “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 made his debut for Shakhtar Donetsk in 2015 before he was shipped out on loan to Karpaty Lviv and Vorskla Poltava.

The 23-year-old has also been linked to Manchester City after he played against them in the Champions League this season.

Arteta is desperate for defensive reinforcements as Calum Chambers has been ruled out for up to nine months after undergoing surgery on a ruptured ACL.

And Shkodran Mustafi’s spot in the starting XI looks in doubt after his disastrous display against Chelsea.

The Gunners have kept just four cleans sheet in 24 Premier League games this season.