Arshavin prefers Spain move

Russian playmaker has offers from England and Germany

Last updated: 23rd June 2008

Arshavin prefers Spain move

Arshavin: Keen on Spain move

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Russia ace Andrei Arshavin says he has offers from England and Germany, but his preference is to play in Spain.

Arshavin has emerged as the star of Euro 2008 following his stunning performance in Russia's quarter-final win over Holland.

He had missed the opening two matches of the tournament through suspension and also produced an influential display in the final group game against Sweden.

The playmaker impressed for Zenit St Petersburg last season and is tipped to leave the Uefa Cup winners at the end of the European Championship.

Zenit coach Dick Advocaat conceded last week that the 27-year-old wants to move on and a clutch of clubs have been linked with a £10million-plus bid.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, Manchester City and Newcastle United have all been mooted as admirers of Arshavin, while Barcelona are rumoured to see him as an ideal replacement for Deco.

Time has come

Arshavin admits it may be time to leave Russian football and claims his dream would be to join a Spanish club.

"Perhaps the time has come, yes," Arshavin told AS when asked whether he would move to another European league.

"I know that I have offers from England and Germany, but what I really want is to play in the Primera Liga.

"It's the championship that I have always followed, I like how football is played there.

"But for now, I have no offers from Spain."

The schemer's international team-mate Roman Pavlyuchenko has been linked with a move to Real Madrid and Arshavin feels there are many more Russia players who will have caught the eye at Euro 2008.

He added: "There are many good players in my country, but people are now discovering us.

"It's not only me. This tournament is an opportunity for us."