26|01|2009
Negotiations Continue
Negotiations between FC Zenit and Arsenal over the transfer of Andrei Arshavin continue. Both clubs have agreed on the figure that reflects the real market value of the player.
Currently the main obstacle for completing the deal became Arshavin’s personal requirements. The player and his agent request such wages, that the Arsenal management is not ready to offer. And at present time Arsenal can consider paying Arshavin these wages only at the expense of the transfer cost.
In his turn, Arshavin, who doesn’t intend to lower his demands on the conditions of his personal contract, is slowing down the negotiation process, thus putting the achieved agreement between the clubs at risk.
FC Zenit confirms its willingness to complete the deal. The club is continuing negotiations by offering one more alternative. It is possible to lower the transfer cost, if Arshavin pays compensation for canceling the 4-year agreement.
In 2006 he was paid a granted payment of $5 mln for signing the long term contract. If the player decides to annul the contract before the expiration date, he can pay back half of the granted payment ($2.5 mln) and this money will be included in the transfer cost.