Arsenal hoping for Andrei Arshavin to extend his stay
English Premier League side Arsenal is hoping for their star player Andrei Arshavin to extend his stay at the club. The Gunners are reportedly preparing to offer Arshavin a one year contract extension worth 4 million pounds. The
new deal will increase the Russian’s current weekly wages of £ 70000 to £ 80000, making him one of the highest earners at the club.
Arshavin made his move to Emirates Stadium from Russian club Zenit Saint Petersburg, following a 15 million pound transfer in January 2009. Arsenal’s no.23 currently has 19 months remaining on his 3-year-contract.
Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger is looking to confirm the deal with Arshavin before January, but will not be offering the player a long-term deal. Arsenal have a policy of not offering long term contracts to players who are close
to 30 years of age. French midfielder Samir Nasri is also one of the key players whom Wenger is planning to offer a new contract.
Despite criticism from the Arsenal faithful on the Russian’s efforts this season, Wenger has praised the player’s contribution to the team. Although Arshavin has only managed to score 2 goals this season in the Premier League,
he has been instrumental in Arsenal’s goal scoring exploits this season. While defending his player’s performance this season, Wenger mentioned the fact the Arshavin has the leading assist tally in the Premier League.
He said, “If you look at the stats, he is the player who has created more chances than everybody else in the Premier League this season, so his numbers are quite surprising to people who think he has not done so well. I believe
that since the start of the season in the Premier League, he has been better at creating chances than anyone else.”
Though Arshavin plays as an attacking midfielder, but the versatile footballer can also act as a second striker. The Russian international has certainly proved to be a successful singing at the Emirates for the North London club,
with 23 goals and 19 assists in 79 appearances for the club.
Arshavin was influential in his side’s 3-0 thumping victory against Manchester City, at the weekend. After the win, Arsenal managed to move into 2nd place in the Premier League.
Arsenal will reach the quarterfinals of the Carling Cup if they manage to beat Newcastle United on Wednesday night.
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