Aleksandr Hleb's future has been somewhat very uncertain over the past months, as he was an unsettled Arsenal player, trophyless, coming of age and wanting a new challenge.
Reports had stated that Hleb had agreed personal terms with Barcelona earlier in the transfer season, however a deal did not materialize, as the clubs had not yet agreed a transfer fee for the player. However reports today indicate that the clubs have agreed on a deal for the Beloriussian, and he will now fly to Barcelona, to perform a medical and sign for the club.
With this news Ronaldinho is more likely than not to leave, as Hleb has been tipped as his replacement on the left side of the team. There's really no replacement for Ronaldinho but the club has to take action in case he leaves.
This news also decreases the likelihood of Andrei Arshavin arriving at the Nou Camp this season, as his club has rejected two bids from Barcelona for him, stating that the offers weren't enough.
With club president, Joan Laporta pulling through the vote of no confidence by a very narrow margin, as 60% of the club members with voting rights voted against him, but 65% were needed for an election to be held, trasnfers activities were able to continue as usual and thus, a deal has been agreed for Hleb.
This will reunite two former Gunners, Henry and Hleb, and it is yet to be seen if the two can strike a successful partnership, as it is said they didn't play well together while at the Emirates.
2 comments:
I think this could be a good move for all involved. Firstly, Hleb never realised his full potential at Arsenal and they will feel that he wasn't worth the £12m they paid for him, so will be happy to have received more or less the same from Barcelona.
Hleb will flourish in the Barcelona side. He is quite a lightweight player, and relies on his dribbling and technical skills to get round defenders, which proved fruitless in the Premiership.
Finally, Barcelona have got a potentially great player for a reasonable fee (in today's terms). He has a lot of untapped potential that will likely shine through in the Barca side, playing alongside players such as Messi and Bojan.
I'd love to get some Barcelona tickets and see this new-look side in action!
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