Wednesday, 12th June, 2013
Arsenal are in line to make an offer for Anzhi Makhachkala midfielder Odil Akhmedov, with the player claiming scouts from England have been eyeing him for a long time.
Akhmedov has been plying his trade in the European system since 2011, following his move from Uzbekistan giants Pakhtakor.
The 25-year-old turned out 17 times in the Russian Premier League this season, whilst he also gained continental experience with six Europa League appearances.
Anzhi, who yesterday revealed they had extended the contract of coach Guus Hiddink, appear resigned to seeing Akhmedov try his hand in England.
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The player himself was quoted by Russian daily Izvestia as saying: "It is true that I have had interest from London club Arsenal. I am being watched by their scouts, who are watching over my every game.
"If I move on to this club, it will be a success not only for me but for the whole of Uzbek football.
"Of course, I am very happy to play at Anzhi. This is a club with a great future, but I'd like to try in England or Spain. All these countries have great teams, but having the choice to play for Arsenal would be a dream."
Akhmedov, who spent five years with Pakhtakor's senior side before making the move to Russia, has notched 77 games in total for Anzhi.
His current contract with the Russian outfit is set to run out in 2015, whilst his international career has seen him earn 50 caps for Uzbekistan.
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