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Arsenal connection could land Russian star
Igor Akinfeev opens door to potential Arsenal move
By Mark Bollons
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Akinfeev is keen on a move to Arsenal
or United. (¿PAphotos)
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Arsenal have emerged as contenders to sign highly-rated
Russian stopper Igor Akinfeev.
The 24-year-old keeper has been on the radar of a string of Premier League
clubs for several years now, but Arsenal now have renewed hope of landing
the player after Akinfeev admitted to talks with compatriot Andrey Arshavin.
"I have spoken with Arshavin about Arsenal and London life. He has
only had good things to say about the club and the city," Akinfeev
told The Sun.
"He said some very nice things about me going on to be the best goalkeeper
in the world - and that he would like me to reach that goal at Arsenal
with him."
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has been heavily linked with
the CSKA Moscow star, who impressed on the Champions League stage and
is regarded as one of the best keepers in Europe.
The lure of the Premier League appears strong for Akinfeev, who has his
heart set on a move to either the Emirates or Old Trafford in pursuit
of a new challenge.
"Arsenal and Manchester United are two of the very best clubs in
the world," the goalkeeper continued.
"Juventus have also expressed an interest in me - but Arshavin has
sold England to me very well. If both of them are going to be looking
for keepers this summer - or even the next summer - then of course I am
interested."
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has been linked with a string of new keepers
this summer, with the Frenchman under pressure to find a new No.1 ahead
of the Premier League season.
United are looking for a long-term successor to Edwin Van der Saar, and
the pair could go head-to-head in a battle to sign Akinfeev either this
summer or the next.
Givemefootball.com,
August 05, 2010
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