On the radar of Europe's elite for some time now, Akinfeev is highly thought of and has impressed for both club and country.

He broke into the CSKA Moscow first team aged just 17, in 2003, and picked up a Russian championship-winners medal in his first season. A year later, he became the youngest player ever to represent the Russian Federation (post-Soviet Union), when he ran out against Norway at the age of 18 years and 20 days.

Establishing himself firmly as the No. 1 for club and country, he helped to make CSKA the best side in Russia from 2003-2006 - picking up the UEFA Cup in 2005 - and also starred in the 2008 European Championship, when Russia finished 3rd.

With a great deal of experience behind him, Akinfeev has been linked with Manchester United, Arsenal and AC Milan and has been tipped for the top.

Strengths: Hard-working and as brave as they come, he has great agility and speed, while also communicates well with his defence.

Weaknesses: He went for a time conceding a lot of goals between his legs, before altering his technique, and sometimes his judgement has been called into question.

Career high: His performances at Euro 2008 helped Russia to claim third place.

Career low: A four-month knee injury in 2007 saw him struggle to regain his place in the national team.

Style: Committed, brave, a motivated and technically sound goalkeeper.

Quotes: "I have been in Russia for a lot of years now and feel ready for a new challenge. If the right offer, both for me and the club came in, I don't think anybody would stand in my way." Igor Aginfeev on his future.

Trivia: He has been coached by Rinat Dasaev, the USSR goalkeeper voted the best in Europe at Euro 88.