Against the backdrop of reports about London’s Arsenal’s interest in the forward of Kyiv’s Dynamo, the publication “Soccer Souls” prepared a detailed scouting report on this 23-year-old forward, analyzing his prospects in the British club and the EPL.
Vladislav Vanat. Photo — Y. YuriyevPlayer Profile
Vanat, born on January 4, 2002, in Kamianets-Podilskyi, currently has a market value of 15 million euros according to Transfermarkt. The central forward scored 21 goals and provided 9 assists in 45 matches across all competitions last season, establishing himself as one of the most promising young forwards in Europe. His performances have attracted the attention of several Premier League clubs—Arsenal, Aston Villa, Manchester United, and Newcastle.
The Ukrainian is a product of Kyiv’s Dynamo academy and has already gained international recognition, representing his country at various levels. His rise to fame coincides with a challenging period for Ukrainian football, but he has consistently progressed and fulfilled the tasks of a forward.
Tactical Analysis
Vanat primarily plays as a traditional number nine, combining his physical attributes with intelligent movements in the penalty area. His key strength is his ability to finish attacks, as evidenced by his high conversion rate in the Ukrainian Premier League. The forward possesses versatility, allowing him to drop deeper and connect play, although he poses the greatest threat while inside the penalty box.
His movement suggests that the player is comfortable operating across the width of the penalty area, using his height of 1.81 m to compete in the air and displaying surprising agility for a player of his build. Vanat’s ability to time his runs and find space in a crowded defense is crucial to his success in scoring goals.
The Ukrainian’s pressing game looks promising, although adapting to the intensity of the Premier League will require significant tactical adjustments. His off-the-ball work rate demonstrates commitment, but only speed and the physical demands that exist in English football will reveal the extent of his endurance and tactical discipline.
Strengths
Clinical Finishing: Vanat’s 17 goals in 28 matches in the Ukrainian Premier League demonstrate exceptional efficiency, indicating his natural goalscoring instinct. The two penalties he converted showcase his composure in pressured situations.
Physical Attributes: Standing at 1.81 m, Vanat has a physique that allows him to engage in aerial duels and hold the ball against Premier League defenders. His physical condition appears to meet the demands of English football.
Age Profile: At 23 years old, Vanat represents not only an immediate solution for matches but also long-term investment value. His peak years are still ahead, making him an attractive proposition for clubs looking for sustainable squad building.
Value Proposition: The buyout clause of 20 million euros represents excellent value in today’s inflated transfer market, especially for a proven goalscorer with international experience.
Weaknesses
Gap in League Quality: The standard of the Ukrainian Premier League differs significantly from the intensity and quality of the EPL. Questions remain about his ability to deliver impactful performances against superior opponents.
Limited European Experience: Vanat’s experience in the Champions League shows only 1 goal in 3 matches across 258 minutes (in fact—2 goals and 2 assists in 12 matches and 693 minutes played, including qualifying rounds of the Champions League,—editor’s note), highlighting his limited presence in elite European competitions.
Adaptation Issues: Former Dynamo Kyiv player Artem Milevskiy advised Vanat against joining Premier League clubs, suggesting that La Liga may suit him better. This raises questions about his readiness for the EPL.
Competition for a Starting Spot: The depth of Arsenal’s attack means that Vanat will face significant competition for starting positions, which potentially limits his immediate opportunities for game time.
Arsenal’s Needs for Forwards: As Arsenal has heavily relied on Kai Havertz out of position, Vanat could fill a genuine positional need within Arteta’s system (Mikel Arteta—the head coach of Arsenal,—editor’s note).
Development under Arteta: Arsenal’s managerial setup and track record in player development may accelerate Vanat’s adaptation to EPL football.
Ukrainian Connections: The presence of Oleksandr Zinchenko at Arsenal may ease Vanat’s adaptation by providing cultural and linguistic support during his initial period in England and the EPL.
Market Timing: Given the high fees for renowned forwards, Vanat’s clause offers Arsenal a cost-effective solution for strengthening their attack.
Threats
Risk of Adapting to the EPL: A significant leap in quality and intensity may overwhelm a player accustomed to different demands currently present in Ukrainian football.
Competition from Rivals: Interest from Tottenham, which sees Vanat as a “priority signing,” and other EPL clubs may drive costs up or compel Arsenal to act quickly.
Alternative Targets: Reported interest from Arsenal in Benjamin Šeško and Viktor Djoekers suggests that Vanat could be a backup option, potentially affecting his motivation and commitment.
International Commitments: The current situation in Ukraine means that unpredictable international commitments may impact his availability and focus.
Current Situation in Arsenal’s Attack
Arsenal’s attacking line has undergone significant evolution under Arteta, with the departure of traditional forwards leading to tactical changes. The “Gunners” have operated with complex “nines” and reshaped attacking midfielders, creating tactical flexibility but potentially sacrificing the ability of specialized finishers to complete attacks.
The summer of 2025 represents a crucial period for the evolution of Arsenal’s attack. The club has confirmed that twenty players, including Kieran Tierney and Jorginho, will be released in June 2025, indicating significant squad restructuring. This clearout creates both opportunities and pressure for effective recruitment of new players.
Arteta’s preference for versatile forwards who can switch positions may align with Vanat’s growing skill set, although questions remain about his ability to contribute to Arsenal’s complex tactical schemes beyond just scoring goals.
Financial Considerations
A buyout clause of 20 million euros represents exceptional value in the current market, especially compared to other reported targets of Arsenal. This financial aspect alleviates negotiation complexities, ensuring Kyiv’s Dynamo guaranteed compensation.
Arsenal’s financial situation allows for such investments without breaching financial fair play rules, making Vanat an attractive option with low risk and high reward. The player’s age profile ensures reliable resale value protection, which is crucial for Arsenal’s sustainable transfer strategy.
Verdict
Vladislav Vanat represents a calculated risk for Arsenal—a talented young forward available at below-market price, but with significant adaptation challenges. His scoring statistics indicate a natural talent for finishing attacks, and his physical attributes seem suited to the demands of the EPL.
However, the clear lack of full confidence from Arteta regarding the priority of this transfer reflects tactical concerns about Vanat’s readiness for Arsenal’s system. The success of the Ukrainian will largely depend on careful integration and realistic expectations regarding his development timeline.
For Arsenal, Vanat represents an interesting alternative to more expensive options, but his acquisition should be viewed as a medium-term investment rather than an immediate solution to an attacking problem. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether Arteta believes his coaching staff can unlock Vanat’s potential within Arsenal’s tactical framework.
Translation and stylistic adaptation — Dynamo.kiev.ua, when using the materials hyperlink is mandatory!
