Arshavin fancies Gunners

Wenger in pole position for Russian ace

By James Pearson   Last updated: 14th July 2008

Andrei Arshavin woe Spain v Russia Euro 2008

Arshavin: Fancies Gunners switch

If Arsenal go for Arshavin it could be really good for both parties.

Arshavin's agent
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Andrei Arshavin's agent has hinted his client would choose Arsenal over other interested parties due to manager Arsene Wenger's influence and the team's attacking football.

Zenit St Petersburg's Russia international is one of this summer's hottest properties after helping his side claim last season's Uefa Cup and impressing at Euro 2008.

Although the likes of Chelsea and Barcelona have also been linked with the dangerous 27-year-old playmaker, it appears as though Arsenal are in pole position for his services if they plan on making a bid.

Arshavin's agent Dennis Lachter has told Sky Sports News his client is a great admirer of French tactician Wenger and the team's exciting attacking football.

Gunners advantage

"The stable situation in the club and the influence of Arsene Wenger to Arsenal to English football is huge. I think this is an advantage," said Lachter.

"If Arsenal go for Arshavin it could be really good for both parties. Arsenal is a very young team and Arshavin is 27. There's something about combining young and older players, they propagate attacking football."

When asked if Alexander Hleb's proposed switch to Barcelona would aid Arshavin's potential move to the Emirates, Lachter said that was a question that should be directed elsewhere.

"That question should be to Arsene Wenger and not for me," he said.

Barcelona have already seen a bid for Arshavin rejected by Zenit this summer, although Lachter says Pep Guardiola's lack of experience as a manager could impact on his client's desire to join the Camp Nou giants.

He concluded: "Guardiola was an excellent player, but no one knows what kind of a manager he is."