Chelsea seal Mudryk signing away from Arsenal at last minute

Chelsea paraded their new Ukrainian winger Mudryk at half-time during their home game against Crystal Palace, after beating Arsenal’s reported bid of €95 million

Ukraine winger Mykhailo Mudryk became the latest big-money signing for Chelsea under the club's new American ownership, joining from Shakhtar Donetsk on Sunday in a deal worth 100 million euros ($108 million) and on a remarkable 8 1/2-year deal.

The 22-year-old Mudryk, who was heavily linked with a move to Arsenal, was pictured holding up a Ukraine flag inside Chelsea's stadium before the Premier League game against Crystal Palace and posing for photos.

About 20 minutes into the match, Chelsea announced his signing and described him as “one of the most dangerous attacking players in Europe in one-vs-one situations.”

“This is a huge club, in a fantastic league and it is a very attractive project for me at this stage of my career,” Mudryk said. “I'm excited to meet my new teammates and I'm looking forward to working and learning under Graham Potter and his staff.” Britain's Press Association reported that while Chelsea and Arsenal were believed to have offered a similar amount, the Blues have structured a deal that would see Shakhtar receive more money upfront and with more favorable add-ons than those being negotiated with Arsenal.

Chelsea didn't disclose the fee, but Shakhtar said in a statement it will receive 70 million euros ($75 million) and another 30 million euros “as a bonus payment.”

“I am sure that Mykhailo will win the respect, sympathy, and love of all connoisseurs of world football with his speed, his technique, his impressive and beautiful play,” Shakhtar president Rinat Akhmetov said.

Mudryk, who has played just 65 club games across his career to date, had posted several Instagram messages seemingly suggesting he was keen on a move to Arsenal.