Zenit confirm Arshavin move

Russians say deal has gone through

Last updated: 3rd February 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Zenit confirm Arshavin move

Arshavin: Heading to Arsenal

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Zenit St Petersburg have confirmed Arsenal have signed Andrei Arshavin.

The Russian's on-off move to Emirates Stadium dominated transfer deadline day with the deal not being confirmed by the close of play on Monday.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger told Sky Sports News on Monday that the deal would go through and was being held up as it was yet to be ratified by the Premier League.

The Premier League is expected to finalise the paperwork on Tuesday to allow Arshavin to seal his switch to North London and Zenit claim the move has gone through in a deal worth more than £12million.

"Both clubs have managed to complete the deal. Arshavin will play for Arsenal from now on," Zenit spokesman Alexei Petrov told Russian television.

"The conditions of the contract are very favourable for Zenit," Petrov said. "The value of the deal is much more than £12million."

Arshavin is believed to have agreed a three-and-a-half-year deal at Arsenal and could make his debut in this weekend's North London derby with Tottenham.

Announcement

Arshavin revealed on his personal website that the deal should be officially announced later on Tuesday.

The Russian schemer also revealed he will wear the No.23 shirt at Arsenal once the deal finally goes through.

Asked if he is now an Arsenal player, Arshavin said: "I think so. The negotiations came to a close and there will be details [on Tuesday].

"Now I can say only one thing - that if I play for Arsenal, it will be at number 23."