Mykola Matviyenko was impressive for Shakhtar Donetsk in the 2019/20 season (Getty Images)
Back in January, Zbrina (h/t The Sun) claimed that Arsenal had agreed on a deal to sign Ukrainian defender Mykola Matviyenko from Shakhtar Donetsk. However, a move didn’t materialize and the centre-back stayed put in Ukraine.
Matviyenko, 23, came through the ranks of Shakhtar Donetsk’s youth system but failed to break through at the senior level. Subsequently, he was sent out on loan to Karpaty and Vorskla. Since his return to his parent club, he has been a consistent member of the squad.
This season, he has been a regular under Luis Castro, having featured in 17 league games for the Ukrainian outfit. He has also played in all of his team’s Champions League group games, including the two fixtures against Pep Guardiola’s side. He has impressed throughout the campaign. Thus, Arsenal should make a move for him in the summer.
Arsenal have been vulnerable at the back from the start of the season and had also lost their first two games after the games resumed. While the attacking unit, led by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, has done a decent job so far, the defence has let them down.
Arsenal have conceded 41 goals so far in 32 league games so far and the manager has failed to get the best out of the backline. Summer signing David Luiz has been error-prone and his mistakes have cost the Gunners a lot. The former Chelsea man has not been the same dominant force he once used to be.
Sokratis and Shkodran Mustafi have been inconsistent throughout the campaign, failing to convince the manager despite getting their fair share of games. Rob Holding and Calum Chambers have been injured mostly and the former is being slowly eased into the scheme of things. Thus, to strengthen their backline, a central defender is a must in the summer.
In that regard, Matviyenko would be a viable option for the club. The centre-back helped his side keep 9 clean sheets in the 17 games he featured this term. He has been solid at the back for Shakhtar and has also shown glimpses of his potential. He has also featured in 26 games for the Ukraine national team and that experience would help him in the Premier League.
With Luiz and Sokratis beyond 30, Matviyenko would definitely add freshness to the squad and he would also bring healthy competition. He could be a valuable player for the Gunners if he is able to replicate the same form.
At 24, he has the ability to succeed at a higher level under proper guidance and Arsenal are in dire need of youngsters in their backline. Thus, the Gunners should revive their interest in the Ukraine international and look to bring him to North London this summer.
