Arshavin, who set Euro 2008 alight with surprise package Russia as they stormed through to the semi-finals, has told Zenit he wishes to leave the club in the summer.

The 28-year-old has openly declared he is most keen on a move to Barcelona, but his club has since revealed Spurs have made a move, although no fee has yet been discussed.

Zenit official Konstantin Sarsaniya told the Russian press: "With Tottenham we have contacts.

"This English club is really interested in acquiring Andrei but, as I understand, 27million euros (21.5 million pounds) is too high a price for them.

"For Spurs it is unacceptable. Tottenham are ready to pay in the region of 20million euros (15.9million pounds) for Arshavin."