Uzbekistan captain receptive to Arsenal's interest

Uzbekistan captain Odil Ahmedov has told reporters of his desire to play for Arsenal, after growing speculation linking him to the North London club.



Ahmedov, 24, currently plays alongside Samuel Eto'o for Russian club Anzhi, but is hopeful of a move to one of Europe's major leagues this summer.



A tough-tackling defensive midfielder, Ahmedov was linked with the Gunners briefly last summer, before a recent revival of interest after little progress in pursuit of other midfield targets.



"Of course I am very happy at Anzhi," Ahmedov said. "This club has a great future. But I would like to try in England or Spain. All clubs in Spain and England are wonderful but I would like to play for Arsenal."



Ahmedov joined Anzhi for an undisclosed fee from Pakhtakor Tashkent in June 2011, after impressing during an initial loan period at the club.