Alexander Hleb feels that Arsenal represents Andrei Arshavin's best option as the saga to secure the Zenit St-Petersburg playmaker's signature rumbles on.
As the progress of the potential deal twists and turns amidst rumour and counter-rumour, with Zenit seemingly trying to extract the highest possible fee from a club whose manger, Arsene Wenger, stated firmly the other day wanted to stick to its "principles" in conducting the transfer.
The deal, should it go ahead, is tipped to happen tomorrow according to reports in England, but few concrete details have yet emerged.
Hleb, a Belarussian who can perhaps offer fellow Slav Arshavin some useful cultural pointers, feels that the move could only benefit the Russian, and gave him some friendly advice too, to help him on his way.
The Barcelona star particularly highlighted Arsene Wenger as a key factor at the Emirates.
"Wenger always shows that he believes in his players," Hleb toldSport Express.
"It gives the players great energy and helps in any situation.
"I am sure that if Andrei joins Arsenal, it will work out well. There, he would be an even bigger star.
"He needs to train well and be himself. Arshavin is a top-class footballer and I think he would fit into Arsenal’s plans.
"However, it would be important for him to learn English."
Hleb left Arsenal for Barcelona in the summer, after spending three seasons with the Gunners between 2005 and 2008, making 89 appearances and scoring seven goals.
Zack Wilson, Goal.com
