CSKA Moscow goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev is looking to join
Russia team-mate Andrey Arshavin at Arsenal.
The 24-year-old is a target of the Gunners and Manchester United
after some terrific performances in the Champions League last
season.
However, Arsenal have pulled ahead of United after Arshavin talked
up the Gunners to his international team-mate.
“Arsenal and Manchester United are two of the very best clubs
in the world," Akinfeev told The Sun. <script
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“If both of them are going to be looking for keepers this summer –
or even the next summer – then of course I am interested.
“I have spoken with Arshavin about Arsenal and London life. He has
only had good things to say about the club and the city.
“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.
“They are a great club with a great manager. Of course there is
every chance this will be the last season for Edwin Van der
Sar.
“To be the No.1 for Manchester United would be a great honor
too.
“They are the biggest football club in the world and, to be their
No.1 for a length of time, you know you will have success."
Akinfeev also acknowledged that Serie A giants Juventus have
expressed interest in him, but the Russian goalkeeper wants to move
to England after Arshavin’s glowing recommendation of the Premier
League.
“Juventus have also expressed an interest in me – but Arshavin has
sold England to me very well.
“My contract doesn’t expire until 2013 but I have a great
relationship with my president.
“If the right offer, both for me and the club came in, I don’t
think anybody would stand in my way.
“I have been in Russia for a lot of years now and feel ready for a
new challenge.”