Georgiy Sudako is Ukraine’s next big star.
The Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder is one of Europe’s most in-demand players – despite boasting a whopping €150 million release clause – and it is only a matter of time before he achieves his dream of playing in a top-five league.
But who is this midfielder eyed by Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea and how good is he really?
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What position does Sudakov play in?
Georgiy Sudakov is a central midfielder who mostly plays in an attacking role.
![Georgiy Sudakov and Mykhailo Mudryk](https://static.footballtransfers.com/images/cn/image/upload/q_75,w_750,h_422,ar_750.421/footballcritic/vop7rlzxfahypcxnhsjx.webp)
How good is Sudakov?
Born in the contested Lugansk region of Ukraine, Sudakov has been with local giants Shakhtar Donetsk (now in enforced exile) since Metalist Kharkiv ceased operations in 2016. At Shakhtar, Sudakov has become one of Ukraine’s most highly-rated talents. The 21-year-old midfielder has an eye for goal and boasts brilliant technical ability and skills, while not being afraid to also get stuck in from time to time.
His performances for Shakhtar and Ukraine in recent times have earned him plaudits all across Europe and the Donetsk giants were quick to protect their player from affluent suitors by getting him to agree to a new contract with a release clause worth a ridiculous €150m. This, plus interest from Arsenal and Chelsea, has naturally evoked comparisons to former Shakhtar teammate Mykhailo Mudryk.
Though the two play different positions, there are some parallels in their rise and the two are good friends. Agent Mudryk has been trying to recruit Sudakov for Chelsea, while the midfielder has admitted he values the winger’s advice. “I hope I make the right decisions,” he told 90min in March 2024. “Mykhailo and I talk every day, and in some situations, I learn from him and he gives me advice.”
Sudakov has admitted that playing in a top-five league “is a dream for any footballer” and it seems only a matter of time before his dream comes true.
💨 RUMOR: Informa @arturpetrosyan que el Liverpool estaría siguiendo al centrocampista del Shakhtar Georgiy Sudakov (21).
Juventus y Arsenal también están interesados en el joven medio. En enero los ucranianos rechazaron €40M del Napoli.
— EstoEsAnfield ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (19🏆) (@estoesanfield_) March 27, 2024
READ MORE: How many goals has Mykhailo Mudryk scored for Chelsea?
What clubs are interested in Sudakov?
As mentioned, Arsenal and Chelsea are long-time admirers of Sudakov. Elsewhere in the Premier League, Liverpool have been credited with a strong interest in the midfielder.
On the continent, Juventus and Napoli are said to be vying for his signature, while Barcelona are admirers, though they would struggle to afford him.
When does Sudakov’s contract expire?
Sudakov’s Shakhtar contract expires on December 31, 2028.
How old is Sudakov?
Sudakov was born on September 1, 2022, making him 21 years old.
What is Sudakov’s Instagram?
Sudakov’s Instagram account is @sudakov_11 and has 71k followers as of April 2024.