Gunners remain on Arshavin trail - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Gunners remain on Arshavin trail

Arsenal's bid to land Andrei Arshavin remains on-going, despite Zenit St Petersburg announcing a fee had been agreed for the Russia international.

While Zenit on Monday night released a statement claiming personal terms were now the only obstacle in the way of completing the protracted transfer saga, it is understood a deal between the clubs has yet to be officially reached.

Although the Russians have softened their stance over the original £20million demanded for the 27-year-old playmaker, Arsenal remain resolute in their offer of £12million plus add ons and, as yet, no further improved bid has been tabled.

Nevertheless, Gunners manager Arsene Wenger remains keen to land his number one transfer target before the transfer window closes on February 2.

Zenit's statement, released late on Monday night, had hinted at an imminent conclusion.

"The fundamental understanding over the transfer of the player is achieved between the clubs," read the statement.

"At the moment the basic obstacle in realisation of the transaction is Andrei Arshavin's personal requirements.

Arshavin, reportedly also attracting interest from Spain, is waiting for the "final decision" over his move.

He told Russian newspaper Sport Express: "The talks don't depend on me. I haven't been in touch with the club management, so I haven't heard a clear 'yes' or 'no' yet.

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