Can Arsene work his magic and convince this talented midfield magician to join his Arsenal army?
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is hoping to lure Andrei Arshavin to the Premier League despite the Russia star setting his heart on a move to Barcelona.
Arshavin has attracted the attention of Europe’s leading clubs after shining at Euro 2008 and admitted this week it is his ‘dream’ to play for the Catalan giants.
The 27-year-old is refusing to discuss his future until Russia’s European Championship campaign is over but Zenit St Petersburg are already braced for his departure.
And Wenger reckons the English game would be ideal for Arshavin.
‘He could be tempted by wanting to play in the best league, of course. And it could happen,’ the Frenchman told The Sun.
‘Would you be surprised if it did? If you ask me if I think he will be in the Premier League, I would say yes because that’s a prediction.’
However, Arshavin said: ‘I have supported Barcelona all my life. Barcelona are my dream. I never thought I would have a genuine chance to play for the club. Let’s see how the situation unfolds.
‘For now I can’t say anything for sure. At the moment I’m a player of team Russia and I’m only thinking about doing well in the semi-finals.’ (Daily Mail)
Arshavin’s stock will only rise and rise following the Euro’s where he has been quite easily the best player on show. Arsene will be joined in the queue for his signature by many illustrious clubs who see the attacking midfielder is a stellar talent. Arsenal seem like a good fit for me as his abilities, style and finesse seem to be very well suited to the Russian’s class. Do Gunners fans think that Wenger can persuade Andrei to make the move to N5?