ARSENE WENGER has called for Arsenal fans to continue to trust his judgment as pressure mounts for the Gunners to break the bank and secure a big-name signing like Andrei Arshavin.

Zenit St Petersburg appear to have softened their stance on the €21 million fee demanded for the 27-year-old playmaker, and have indicated a “logical conclusion” to the protracted saga could soon be achieved. Arsenal hope to conclude a deal for Arshavin in the next 48 hours after Zenit St Petersburg said they would be prepared to accept an improved offer of around €16 million in instalments over two years.

However, while the Russians and the player’s agent have issued a string of claims and counter claims, Wenger intends to keep his own counsel until the deal is concluded one way or another as talks between the parties continue.

The Arsenal manager insists he is not about to cave to in to calls for a move to be made in the transfer market just for the sake of it. “I have always tried in my career to do what I think is right and to follow my beliefs and I will continue to do that,” said Wenger.

“I do not make a point of worrying about who thinks the same as I do, because that wouldn’t work in this job. In this job I am paid well to take my responsibility and to stand up for it. I believe in my players and in my team. Whether someone comes in or not, that does not change my belief.”

Wenger insists his attentions remain on the training pitch, rather than worrying over the likelihood of any new arrivals. “I am more focused to do well with the players I have than to be obsessed with the players I can buy or not buy. At the moment it is 2 per cent of my worries,” he said. “However, a player coming in or out, Arsenal Football Club will be the same – we have top quality here and one transfer more or less is not very important for the club. I believe in the players I have.”