Transfer gossip: Arshavin bids Zenit goodbye

The pick of the transfer rumours from today's other newspapers. Plus our verdict, with marks out of 10, on just how probable they are.

Arshavin: I want to prove how good I am - Daily Mail
The Zenit St Petersburg forward last night parted company with his team-mates for what he believes will be the last time before sealing a move to Arsenal.   

Times Online verdict:  2 (out of 10)
Arsene Wenger seldom buys players at their peak, who are aged in their late 20s, and would Arsenal really be willing to match a valuation of around £20million and his £50,000 a-week in Russia? Very unlikely. That said, maybe Arsenal’s injuries and form make this an exceptional season to change Wenger’s ways.

Adams to take big gamble on Barton - Daily Mirror
The Portsmouth manager is ready to sign the troubled Newcastle midfielder as a replacement for Lassana Diarra.

Verdict:  5
Sensible logic, given that Portsmouth have sold three combative players in the past six months. But can Portsmouth afford him? And do Newcastle want to sell him, given their league position?

Smith fury at Boro swap - The Sun
Alan Smith is furious that Newcastle have agreed to swap him for Mido, the Middlesbrough forward.

Verdict: 2
It’s clear, from the story, that Newcastle are offering the forward to other clubs, and Smith does not want to leave. A move to Everton fell through in the summer because of his wage demands, when a fee of around £2.5milllion was discussed. Smith clearly does not want to leave… and certainly not to a club facing a relgation battle.

Spurs line up £4.5m Fred - Daily Mirror
Harry Redknapp is considering a bid for Lyons' Brazilian striker.

Verdict: 2
Reported in The Times’ window watch earlier this week as a long-shot. Tottenham’s priorities are to bring in a left winger, right back and back-up goalkeeper, after they have nearly completed a deal for Defoe.

Brown poised to pay £1m for Kilbane - The Guardian
The Hull City manager is expected to hold talks with the Wigan Athletic veteran in the next 48 hours.

Verdict: 5
Makes sense. Experienced player to settle heads after Hull’s dip in form