Premier League

Report: Andrei Arshavin In Negotiations With Arsenal

The little maestro is having talks with Premier League club Arsenal ahead of a proposed transfer in the New Year...

Dec 23, 2008 8:06:03 AM

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Andrei Arshavin - Russia (PA)

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Andrey Arshavin

Russian playmaker Andrei Arshavin coould be on his way to Arsenal in the January transfer window, according to a report in the British tabloid the Daily Mirror.

"We have given Andrei permission to negotiate," Zenit St Petersburg official Alexei Petrov is quoted as saying, sparking rumours that he is set to arrive at the Emirates Stadium.

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is thought to be a keen admirer of the 27-year-old's talents, but is reluctant to spend the fee asked for to acquire his services.

It is claimed that Zenit want around €21 million (£20m) for the 41-time-capped Russian international who has spent his entire career with the club, making more than 230 appearances.

With Arsenal short in midfield following the injury to Cesc Fabregas recently and Tomas Rosicky still on the treatment table, Wenger could finally be prepared to sanction a big transfer fee to land his man.

However, with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid also known to be interested in the forward, Arsenal could face strong competition for his signature.

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com