Arsenal remain confident Mykhaylo Mudryk wants to join them and they’re also stepping up their pursuit of Joao Felix, according to reports.

James Benge reported on Thursday night that there was no breakthrough in Arsenal’s talks for Mykhaylo Mudryk, but parties close to the deal were indicating there’s still a strong desire to reach a fee agreement this month.

Arsenal’s interest hasn’t been cooled by the likely rejection of their second bid, but they won’t be drawn into a bidding war.

The Evening Standard report that both Arsenal and Chelsea will accelerate negotiations for Mudryk this week, with Shakhtar Donetsk chief executive Sergei Palkin in London for talks.

The Standard add that Arsenal are still the front runners, and Hrach Khachatryan reports that Mudryk has made it clear he wants to join Arsenal.

The Telegraph reiterate that Arsenal won’t be drawn into a bidding war, but they remain confident the player wants to join and they’re pushing hard for his signature.

Chelsea are also keen, but they want assurances that Mudryk is willing to join them over Arsenal before making a formal offer.

On top of the deal for Mudryk, The Telegraph report that Arsenal are now stepping up their pursuit of Joao Felix.

The Gunners are looking to add both Felix and Mudryk to their squad for the second half of the season, but the addition of Felix will depend on the size of the loan fee.

David Ornstein also recently reported on Arsenal’s interest in Felix, adding that Atletico were asking for a €15m loan fee, plus another €6m in wages.

No club is willing to pay that amount, but Arsenal are keen if and when the price comes down.