Agent: Hleb is leaving Arsenal

Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb is leaving the club, according to his agent, Niki Spilevski. Apparently, the player has being in crunch talks with Arsene Wenger and informed the Frenchman he wishes to leave the club with immediate effect.

The on/off transfer saga looks to be close to coming to an end, as his agent has now confirmed the player is looking to leave the club.

His agent had previously suggested that the player wouldn't buy out his own contract; whilst the player himself has admitted he is flattered by interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid.

"I can officially confirm that a short time ago Alexander decided that he will leave Arsenal and join another club," the agent said.

"Of course Arsenal and Arsene wanted him to stay but they have accepted the player’s choice.

"Alex has spent three good seasons at Arsenal and he wasn’t sure he could maintain the same level that he has been showing if he stayed.

"It’s also true that he felt uncomfortable off the field. Alexander wants a change of scene. That’s had a large part to play in his decision."

Arsenal are now likely to allow Hleb to leave for around £8 million; with Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Barcelona all in the race for his signature.