Russian goalkeeping great Valery Gazzaev admits Arsene Wenger wanted to sign CSKA Moscow legend Igor Akinfeev for Arsenal.

Now 38, Akinfeev is still going to strong for CSKA having made over 550 appearances.

Gazzaev, a former CSKA coach, told Sport-Express: “I can say quite frankly that Arsene Wenger was interested and asked me personally about Igor Akinfeev and Andrey Arshavin.

"Over the course of five years, we met at the forum of great European coaches. Well, naturally, I gave him the best characteristics.

“It seems to me that Igor made the right choice. He is a true patriot of his club, a true patriot of his country. He has achieved a lot. I think this is an example for the younger generation."