Various reports are arriving in the media, quoting Alexander Hleb's agent, Nikolai Shpilevski: “Alexander is preparing to make one of the most important moves of his life.” Shpilevski told Friday’s edition of the Daily Mail.

“He is leaving Arsenal even though they want to offer him a new long-term contract and better conditions. There's no way back now.”

Following the ice cream debacle, where Hleb was seen holding talks with his agent prior to Champions League match with AC Milan in March, it seems that Hleb's desire to seek pastures new is not only plausible but likely.

It's fairly obvious from Hleb's past comments in the press that playing in the Premier League is too rough and tumble for his liking. The brutal kicks he has to endure week in week out certainly appear to have taken their toll, and in all honesty I don't see Wenger putting his foot down and blocking Hleb's plans - he has never been one to keep hold of unhappy players, although he might resist for a week or two.

Only one question remains, what effect will Hleb's leaving have on the team performance? From reading various blogs and articles this season fan opinions are likely to be split. My own personal take is that Hleb has had 3 seasons at Arsenal and not fulfilled the incredible potential he displayed as an attacking midfielder at VfB Stuttgart. The player seems incapable of putting in consistent performances as a wide player, yet appears much more dangerous and elusive as a support striker. However, long term he is not seen as a support striker by Wenger, we have Eduardo and Van Persie for that, and long-term Bendtner, Walcott and maybe even Vela.

Will Arsenal miss Alexander Hleb? It's a hard call, but in my opinion he is replaceable. The player was an important part of Wenger's footballing philosophy, particularly the build-up play, but the end product was often sadly lacking. His low assists ratio and particularly goal scoring record speak for themselves.

The biggest problem surrounding Hleb's departure is that two of Arsenal's best midfielders this season have left, or will be leaving, which means players coming in will take time to adjust, therefore affecting the fluidity and efficiency of the team next season when yet more is expected.

Fears may be eased however if Rosicky can start the season injury-free and stay that way, whilst Walcott also looks ready to start playing on the wings more consistently.