Arshavin, 27, who played a key part in Zenit's UEFA Cup winning campaign last season, has joined on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee.

He was also a member of the Russian Euro 2008 squad in which he scored two goals from his three appearances, earning him a place in the 'Team of the Tournament'.

Arshavin won the Russian Premier League with Zenit in 2007, making a total of 232 appearances for his previous club, scoring 51 goals.

During his time with Zenit, he was also part of the winning team that picked up the Russian Super Cup in 2008, the Russian Premier League Cup in 2003 and featured in the UEFA Super Cup victory over Manchester United in Monaco last August.

With 41 international caps for Russia, Arshavin has scored a total of 15 goals for his country. His versatility has allowed him to play in a variety of positions.

The 2006 Russian Footballer of the Year started his career as a right midfielder, but has since played as an attacking midfielder and more recently has filled the 'second striker's' role.

The paperwork was submitted on Monday to the Premier League who have now ratified the transfer. He is set to wear the number 23 shirt and, fitness permitting, could make his debut in Sunday's north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane.

However the Russian close season means he has not played for several weeks and he may need time to build up match fitness.

Arshavin was paraded to excited fans waiting for news outside the Emirates Stadium.

He said: "I am surprised to see so many supporters and I want to say thank you so much.

"It was a hard few days but I am a Gooner now and I will do my best for the club.

"I am so happy to be joining Arsenal. They are one of the leading football clubs in the world, with a group of fantastic young players and a great manager.

"I am looking forward to making the Arsenal supporters happy and helping this great club win trophies. I'm happy to be an Arsenal player, it was my dream."

Main picture courtesy of Arsenalpics.com

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