Loading ...Jul 30 2008
Arshavin to Tottenham Talk Continues
The idea of Andrei Arshavin moving from Zenit St. Petersburg to Tottenham in the wake of the Robbie Keane sale has reached an explicit stage, with Arshavin’s agent speaking about Spurs specifically.
Dennis Lachter downplayed the idea that a move is close, but he did continue that Spurs continue to talk to Zenit about the Russian Prince. He confirmed that Zenit maintains a high price for Arshavin (though it has reportedly dropped slightly) and the gap between it and what Tottenham wants to pay remains significant.
The angle of the story that nobody is talking about is Arshavin’s change of heart as it concerns Spurs. Arshavin had some negotiations earlier this summer with Spurs before his Euro 2008 explosion, after which he seems to indicate Spurs was not a big enough club for him. But after Barcelona tried to low-ball Zenit and no other top-tier clubs tabled offers, Arshavin’s decided that a move to London an Tottenham is better than stay with Zenit. At least he gets to move to the Premiership, and there are far worse clubs you could be at than Tottenham.
If Arshavin’s reticence to move to Italy wasn’t such an issue, AS Roma would also be a possibility. Roma is an elite club, will be playing in the champions league, has players like Francesco Totti and Daniele De Rossi, and is a serious threat for their league’s title. Rome is a beautiful place and Italy has some appreciation for Russian culture. Still, Arshavin has been adamant that he does not want to move to the Serie A.
At this point, Zenit can hold out, knowing that Tottenham has played their hand in selling Keane. Daniel Levy wants everybody to believe that Spurs had no choice but to sell, but it’s unlikely the situation is as simple as “mighty” Liverpool forcing Tottenham’s hand. Spurs acted too early on a deal that could have done as a handshake until they got Arshavin, David Villa, or Thiago Neves. Now Zenit, who is willing to lose out on an Arshavin deal for asking too much, can exact their fee from Tottenham. It’s unlikely with Valencia or Fluminense will be selling their target at a discount.
Quotes
“At this point there is some talks with Tottenham, but nothing complete because of the high fee Zenit want for Andrei.” - Lachter
“The gap is huge between the two clubs as Zenit are looking a lot of money for Andrei.” - Lachter
“Juande Ramos very much wants to sign Andrei as he is his number one target and Daniel Levy is doing everthing to make the deal, but it is difficult to agree a fee with Zenit.” - Lachter
“Andrei has made it known he wants to leave Zenit and the player has made his decision - he would like to go to Tottenham.” - Lachter
Links
Spurs in Arshavin talks
Arshavin itching For Spurs Move - Agent
Arshavin agent cools Tottenham talk
Spurs in talks with Arshavin
WFP Related Posts
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.