We’re sure that Alexander Hleb will be ‘furious’ with the latest press speculation surrounding his future. Never mind that the Arsenal midfielder’s constant appearances in the newspapers should be flattering, revealing as they do that there are plenty of clubs interested in acquiring the wantaway player.
Sky Sports reveal that Barcelona are very much in pole position to land the Belarussian’s signature, as Pep Guardiola starts to rebuild a squad of his own making. However, it appears that the Spanish giants are reluctant to pay through the nose for someone who’s really just had one good season at the Emirates and is a slightly unproven package.
“The negotiation with Hleb is still in progress and despite him being a player with special qualities, if his club are not ready [to sell him], we have other options in mind,” Ingla told Catalunya Radio.
There is pressure on Ingla and his colleagues to try and complete a deal for Hleb and any other targets after new coach Pep Guardiola stated he wanted his squad fully assembled by 6th July.
“We are not going to worry ourselves in our current operations,” Ingla added.
Who thinks that Hleb might end up wearing an Arsenal shirt for the first game of the season against West Brom, albeit with a look of a spoilt brat who has not get their own way for once in their life. Fair play to the Gunners for putting their foot down like this, why should they consent to having their squad shorn of talent unless they are adequately compensated.