Arsenal are preparing to cash in on the security unrest in Ukraine, which has led several players refusing to return for the new season, by launching a £15.8 million (€20 million) offer for Shakhtar Donetsk forward, Douglas Costa.
The Brazilian forward, who has described living in Donetsk as ‘deadly, has asked for a transfer away from the club, but Shakhtar have insisted he must stay.
Shakhtar are reputed as tough negotiators, but the premier league side would have the upper hand, with the 23-year-old personally pushing for a transfer away.
Fellow premier league side, Manchester United, have also been linked with Costa, who can play in any attacking position including as a striker.