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.