Zenit want loan deal for Arsenal’s Andrey Arshavin

The 30-year-old Russia captain has struggled for form and been booed by his home fans this year, leading to suggestions that he could return to his former side ahead of Euro 2012

22 Feb 2012 18:22:00

By George Ankers

More On :  Arsenal FC, Zenit, Andrey Arshavin
Carling Cup - Arsenal vs Bolton Wanderers, Andrei Arshavin and Fabrice Muamba
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Zenit have admitted their interested in re-signing former star Andrey Arshavin on loan from Arsenal until the end of the season.

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The 30-year-old moved to the Emirates Stadium from Zenit in January 2009 but has seen his form dip in recent months, finding himself booed at times by the Gunners crowd, and the Russian champions believe that a temporary return would be mutually beneficial.

“Arshavin would interest us in terms of having him on loan,” the club’s general director, Maxim Mitrofanov, told the Russian media.

“[Besides helping Zenit in the league] Andrey would also be well prepared for the upcoming Euro 2012 finals.

“The question is what Arsenal really want - would they want a loan deal?”

The transfer deadline in Russia closes on February 24, with Premier League clubs still able to sell or loan out players despite no longer being able to buy.

“We had [initial] talks with them,” Mitrofanov revealed when asked if Zenit had contacted the Gunners over a possible switch.

“Let's see how they respond now.

“The fact is Andrey still wants to play in England but he really wants to do well at Euro 2012 [and Zenit] would be a good solution for him in this case.”

Arshavin, captain of the Russia national team, has returned only two goals and three assists for Arsenal in 2011-12 so far, despite making 27 appearances in all competitions.

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