International striker urged to join Arsenal as Arsene Wenger closes in on deal

Aleksandr Kokorin told to make January move to Arsenal

 

DYNAMO MOSCOW striker Aleksandr Kokorin has been advised to make a January switch to Arsenal by compatriot Andrei Kanchelskis.

 

The Russia international has been linked with a £4.3million move to the Gunners after impressing with 50 goals in 201 appearances for Dynamo.

And Kanchelskis, who had stints at Manchester United, Everton and Southampton, feels the 24-year-old needs to take his career to the next level at the Emirates.

 

"Kokorin should jump at the chance to go to that country," Kanchelskis said. "The Russian championship is very weak and Aleksandr can progress at Arsenal.

"Arsenal are the best option for Aleksandr’s career. If he is prepared to work a lot, he will not have any problems.

 

Aleksandr Kokorin has 10 goals in 36 caps for Russia

 

"He will not be like (Arsenal’s former Russian forward) Andrei Arshavin and will become a top class forward for the London club."

But the Gunners face competition for his services after Zenit St Petersburg chief Maxim Mitrofanov said: "Kokorin is a fantastic player who Zenit would definitely want to see in their squad."