Alisher Usmanov has again spoken out about Arsenal’s transfer policy, encouraging them to work on a deal for Wayne Rooney.

However, his attempts to win over Arsenal fans may be hindered by the fact he’s chosen to throw his weight behind a controversial potential signing.

On the England international forward, Usmanov said:

"He is a great player, there would be great success for Rooney if he joined Arsenal, and for Arsenal too.

He also backed Arsene Wenger, and said he feels the club will be successful in the near future, rather more positive comments than the shareholder has made before:

Gonzalo Higuain’s mooted move to Arsenal moved a step closer to completion, with the Real Madrid striker agreeing personal terms with Arsenal ahead of an expected bid of around £22m.

This comes after reports that Juventus had pulled out of the race for his signature, leaving Arsenal as the only real competitors as it stands.

Shift

This represents a significant shift in Arsenal’s financial policy of recent years, enabled by new commercial deals and a relaxing of restraints placed during the stadium move.

Gonzalo Higuain transfer has been one of the main talking points of the window so far but finally seems to be coming to an end.

Juventus Backing Off Higuain

As Arsenal Latest reported Juventus have backed off Higuain, conceding the striker to Arsenal. John Cross of the Mirror claims that Arsenal are aiming to bring the Argentinian striker in before the pre-season tour.

The lack of funds at Juventus could be a major stumbling block for the Italian giants in their pursuit of Higuain, and according to Cross, the leading source of Arsenal news at the Mirror, Jovetic could be heading to Italy, with Higuain making the trip to Arsenal for a fee of around £22 million.

As part of their youth reconstruction programme, Arsenal are looking to recruit a number of promising young players from other sides, in this case one of the younger players could be seen as a first-team addition.

Both players are promising deep midfielders.

Arsenal have received a boost ahead of next season, with two key defenders pledging their immediate futures to the club, despite differing contract situations.

Bacary Sagna and Laurent Koscielny have both been heavily linked away and have suggested a move is possible, but both are now expected to stay at Arsenal at least until the end of next season.

Sagna

Sagna is entering the last year of his contract, with Arsenal seemingly reluctant to offer an extension to the 30-year-old right back.