Source: Daily_Mail
umbers don't add up as Wenger seeks an end to the Arshavin soap opera
Andrei Arshavin's protracted transfer to Arsenal [LNB]has been dubbed 'the soap opera' in his homeland - and the latest bizarre episode sees Arsene Wenger and the Russians quibbling over how close the deal is.[LNB] With time running out to complete the transfer before the January window closes on Monday evening, Wenger admitted there were significant hurdles to overcome before the 27-year-old pitches up at the Emirates.[LNB]Wenger said earlier this week that the deal was '90 per cent completed', while talks last night and today are understood to have made significant progress.[LNB] Euro star: Andrei Arshavin scores for Russia against Holland at last summer's European Championship[LNB]A source close to negotiations told Sportsmail: 'If the deal had been 90 per cent done, we are now 95 per cent there.'[LNB]However, Wenger showed just how ridiculous the analysis was by saying: 'It is 90 per cent not done, 10 per cent done. The percentage does not have a big meaning because the 10 per cent can quickly become the 90 per cent.[LNB]'Let's see. Anyway we won't have a long time to wait because very shortly it is the transfer deadline.'[LNB]Talks continue, though reports in Russia that the deal has been concluded are premature. Wenger is unaware if the Russia striker has already been granted a work permit by the Home Office.[LNB]Arshavin will leave Zenit's training camp in Dubai tonight or early tomorrow.[LNB]When pressed as to whether this weekend was make or break, and if he wanted the deal done before kick-off in tomorrow's match, Wenger replied: 'Yes, of course, if it can be done we want it done as quickly as possible.[LNB]'You can never rule signings out but I think it is important to concentrate on the players we have. We have made serious enquiries but not made any bids.'[LNB] Arshavin 'granted work permit' for move to Arsenal as he agrees to help fund £15m move[LNB]Ten things you need to know about Arsenal target Andrei Arshavin[LNB]ALL THE WEEKEND'S PREMIER LEAGUE TEAM NEWS[LNB]ARSENAL FC NEWS FROM ACROSS THE NET[LNB][LNB] [LNB]
