Arshavin blow for Premier clubs
Russia forward Andrei Arshavin has dealt a blow to any Premier League suitors after it was revealed he only wants to play for Barcelona.
Barca are the sole club to have bid for the ?20m-rated Zenit St Petersburg star, despite reports suggesting he was set for talks with Arsenal and Chelsea.
"Arshavin wants to move to Barcelona - he doesn`t want to play anywhere else," a Zenit spokesman told BBC Sport.
The 27-year-old shone at Euro 2008, helping Russia reach the semi-finals.
However, Zenit`s asking price for Arshavin may prove to be a major stumbling block in any potential deal.
"Barcelona have made an offer but we are still negotiating with them. I don`t know when a decision will be made but I think Arshavin will leave the club," added the Zenit spokesman.
The negotiating could be over the "?20m to ?25m" fee Zenit coach Dick Advocaat expects for his striker.
Barcelona told BBC Sport they would not be making any comment on the current situation.
Arshavin, who scored twice during Euro 2008 after missing the first two games because of suspension, has been given leave of absence while he decides on his future.
"Andrei won`t play until things are all cleared up," confirmed Advocaat.
"It`s a joint decision. Better put, I told him he shouldn`t play and he agreed."
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