A Zenit spokesman was then quoted as saying that the deal had fallen through, but it appears that, yet again, Arsenal fans have been guided down a misleading path.
As confusion continues to surround the status of the deal, Zenit general director Maxim Mitrofanov insists talks are still ongoing.
“The clubs have a mutual desire to complete the transaction,” Mitrofanov told Sovetsky Sport at 5.40pm. “Negotiations are continuing.”
It is anticipated that Zenit will soon issue a statement to finally confirm whether the Russia playmaker has joined Arsenal.