After reportedly losing hope of signing Andrei Arshavin, Arsene Wenger has targeted another member of Russia’s impressive Euro 2008 squad.
Reports in Russia claim that Arsenal could consider switching Russian targets by pursuing an interest in CSKA Moscow’s Yuri Zhirkov.
The 24-year-old was outstanding for Russia in Euro 2008, excelling as an attacking left back, but prefers to play in a more advanced role down the flank.
With Gael Clichy firmly installed in the Gunners side, it is claimed that Arsene Wenger has thought about making an approach to Zhirkov to help counter the loss of Barcelona-bound Alexander Hleb.(Setanta Sports)
£11m-rated Zhirkov was very impressive in Euro 2008 and was a constant menace going forward. It’s easy to see why Arsenal would be interested in signing the CSKA man, especially now that Hleb is near to an Emirates exit. Yuri’s bombing runs could see him pairing up nicely with Gael and he would fit nicely into the Gunners squad. What do Arsenal fans think of Zhirkov, and are they still hopeful of persuading Arshavin to move to north London as well?