Wenger urged to move quickly in battle to secure Arshavin

The Russian club yesterday claimed they were confident of concluding a deal "within two weeks" for the 27-year-old, who has reportedly attempted to force a transfer by threatening to buy himself out of the remaining 18 months of his contract.

But although the Gunners are expected to table an offer this week, the forward's agent, Dennis Lachter, insists the Russian club are aiming to spark a bidding war for a player who they previously valued at £20million after Tottenham failed to match that figure last summer.

He said: "There is no news, no negotiations yet. I represent the player and I can assure you I would know if something had been discussed. It is the people of Zenit trying to initiate some kind of interest.

"They are trying to use the media to make the price of Arshavin £20m — I would not take it seriously."

Despite Lachter's insistence a deal is "some way off", Zenit coach Dick Advocaat is resigned to losing his prize asset, who has been at the club all of his career.

"I am aware that Arsenal are interested but I don't know any more than that," said Advocaat. "He could play for any of the top teams in Europe."
Arsenal last night refused to comment but boss Arsene Wenger has expressed his admiration for Arshavin, who excelled as Zenit won last season's UEFA Cup.

Zenit are expected to lower their asking price and Arsenal could succeed with an offer in the region of £14m.

General director Maxim Mitrofanov said: "It's very difficult to discuss the Arshavin value.
"We want to get an adequate payment. We also need to see what player will be coming to us to replace Andrei."

The last big-money January signing Arsenal made was Jose Reyes, who cost £10.5m from Sevilla in 2004.