Player Profile: Andriy Yarmolenko (Dynamo Kiev)

So what of Liverpool’s interest in the Ukrainian winger?

Well, it seems Liverpool are hellbent on cracking the East European market this summer. With the failed attempts for Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Willian, Yarmolenko would perhaps present Liverpool with their most realistic crack at getting a winger into the club this transfer window. Although he is best suited on the right of the attack, his ability to play across the front line and interchange during play could appeal to Brendan Rodgers as he looks to bring in an experienced winger to add to Raheem Sterling and Jordon Ibe.

Dynamo Kiev’s resolve was tested a season back when Napoli and Rubin Kazan offered £8m and £10m respectively for Andriy Yarmolenko. Both bids were rejected at the time as Yarmolenko was persuaded to stay on for a further season. However, the media in Ukraine feel an offer of around €20m this summer will be enough to tempt Dynamo Kiev to part with their talisman whose contract runs out in less than two years.

There is also a feeling in the Ukraine that Andriy Yarmolenko would benefit from a move away from the club. His game needs to be taken to the next level and a move abroad seems to be the next step in Yarmolenko’s climb up the footballing ladder. Of course, Andriy Shevchenko left the club aged 23 and it looks like Yarmolenko is sure to follow suit in the footsteps of his idol. To end the report, we finish with a quote from Sheva who had this to say of his apprentice:-

“Yarmolenko is the future of Ukrainian football. He is one of the best of the new generation. He has a rare combination of physical strength and football intelligence. He has already proved the top player both for the club and the national side.”