Zenit rival Arsenal for Anzhi’s star midfielder…
Arsenal face a battle with Zenit St. Petersburg for Anzhi Makhachkala midfielder Odil Ahmedov, reports Russian publication Izvestia.
The Gunners have been tracking the tireless midfielder for well over a year, and are attracted to his aggresive, combative style. Ahmedov also posses an extremely powerful shot, and a fantastic engine in the middle of the park.
Arsenal now face competition from Zenit though, who are willing to pay the £10m valuation Anzhi have put on the Uzbekistan international.
With Abou Diaby almost permanently out injured, and with Mikel Arteta not the physical presence in midfield that he once was, Arsene Wenger has earmarked the 25-year-old as a realistic option to strengthen the middle of the park following Anzhi’s recent change of footballing tact.
The Russian club are selling their big name players, with the aim of developing their academy and giving young players a chance. Samuel Eto’o and Willian joined Chelsea this summer, and Ahmedov could follow the pair to the Premier League in January.
The midfielder has previously admitted his preference to leave Russia, which could help Arsenal should a bidding war with Zenit begin in the coming months.
“If I move there, I could be a huge success but there is no bid yet,” Ahmedov said.
“Of course, I am happy at Anzhi, but I’d like to try England or Spain.”
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