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.

Jack Wilshere has a pre-contract agreement with Arsenal when he signs on pro forms in January which will see him make an enormous £15,000 a week.

The 16-year-old was promoted to the first team after impressing boss Arsene Wenger during pre-season and was subsequently rewarded with the number 19 shirt.

He continued to impress in the Emirates Cup and his 15-minute cameo role against La Liga winners Real Madrid confirmed the fact that Wilshere looks the part in the Arsenal first team squad; he is now set to earn 200 times his current wage packet.

Then, the England Under-17 star scored in the Carling Cup thrashing of Sheffield United. Premier League money-bags Chelsea were immediately linked with the Stevenage-born starlet.

Wilshere will sign his first professional deal when he turns 17 on New Year’s Day. Keep up to date with all the latest news and views on Arsenal’s reserve & youth set-up over at our good friends Young Guns.