Hleb's desire forced move

Alexander Hleb's desire to move to England helped to pave his way to Highbury.

The Belarus international still has to complete a medical and obtain a work permit but Arsenal have confirmed that they envisage no problems on either count.

Stuttgart were loath to lose one of their most consistent performers, but such has been the will of the 24-year-old wide man - a transfer was inevitable.

Hleb will move to North London in a deal that could eventually cost the Premiership giants ‚é¼15 million.

''Alex absolutely wanted to carry out the change to Arsenal,'' confirmed Briem.

''We had certain stipulations in order to agree this change.

''These conditions are now fulfilled.

''The long period of speculation has now terminated.''