Gooner Talk

Gooner Talk can exclusively reveal that Arsene Wenger has refused to deny the consistent rumours concerning Russia forward Andrey Arshavin.

Zenit St Petersberg star Arshavin has attracted an array of admiring clubs on the strength of two spectacular Euro 2008 performances against Sweden and the Netherlands, Arsenal are said to be one of them.

French tactician Wenger admitted on French TV that he doesn’t have £40 million to spend in the January transfer window, but surprisingly revealed what positions he’s looking to strengthen in and also answered a question about Arshavin.

Wenger, speaking to Canal + said:

“I start feeling the crisis but I can’t spend £40m. We are looking at a creative player and another midfielder.”

When asked about the Arshavin link, Wenger replied with a coy smile and answer.

“Be a little patient. From the moment you give a name, you remove 50% chance of success to sign him.”

Whilst talking to British broadcaster Sky Sports, once again the Arsenal boss remained secretive on his January transfer plans.

You can watch the interview with Sky here.

Zenit St Petersberg star Arshavin has attracted an array of admiring clubs on the strength of two spectacular Euro 2008 performances against Sweden and the Netherlands.

It seems Arshavin is destined to be the replacement for Cesc Fabregas after the Spaniard sustained a long-term knee injury that will keep him out for four months.

With thanks to Vince from ASCFR for the French TV quotes and JD for the Canal + link.

New Arsenal signing Mikael Silvestre has been praised by Gunners’ legend Frank McLintock who believes it’s a good bit of business done by Arsene Wenger.

The 31-year-old completed his £750,000 move last night and signed a 2-year deal and become another member of Arsenal’s almost all-French backline.

And McLintock, who skippered the club to the Double in 1971, insisted:

“Silvestre will be a very, very good signing for us.

“I never even thought about him but he is just the type of player we need. He has bags of experience and won’t cost a lot as he is 31.

“Being French, he’ll have no trouble settling in.”

Mikael is set to train with his new team-mates for the first time this morning and could make his debut against Fulham if Kolo Toure isn’t fit.