Andrey Arshavin transfer talks re-opened between Arsenal and Zenit

Posted Tuesday, June 12, 2012 by Metro.co.uk

Zenit St. Petersburg have opened informal talks with Arsenal over re-signing Andrey Arshavin, as the forward continues to impress at Euro 2012.

Russian return: Andrey Arshavin

Arshavin is all but certain to quit Arsenal this summer, having fallen out-of-favour with Arsene Wenger after asking to return to Zenit on loan last January.

The decision to leave north London upset Wenger, but Arshavin underwent something of a rejuvenation back in his homeland, scoring three goals and assisting four more in 19 matches, as Zenit cruised to the Russian league title.

The switch also proved key in securing Arshavin's place as captain and starter in Russia's Euro team, where he has impressed so far, turning in a classy display in the 4-1 win over Czech Republic.

As Metro revealed last month, Zenit have maintained their interest in re-signing Arshavin on a permanent basis, but talks had been postponed until after Euro 2012, in a bid to avoid unsettling the player.

However, with Arshavin's stock on the rise, Zenit have returned to the negotiating table, and held informal talks with Arsenal over the weekend, with a proper meeting set to follow.

Zenit value Arshavin at around £5 million, but Arsenal want to recoup a decent amount of the £15 million they handed over in January 2008, and have asked for closer to £8 million.

The Gunners know they hold all the cards, and have also received tentative interest from Fulham, something that has alerted Zenit, especially as Arshavin's family would love to remain in London.

More talks are expected next week.

« Previous12 Next »