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looks like AM3+ and FM2 will be with us for at least 1 more CPU update
http://hexus.net/tech/news/mainboard/45889-amd-looks-standardise-sockets-am3-fm2/
Unsure as of yet, but for an upgrade path go with the 2011 Socket Intel CPU's.
If AMD, then you can try your luck with FM2 as it is still fairly new.
Most of the AM3 Boards could accommodate AM3+ CPU's with an update, depends on the size of the holes for the pins.
AM3+ Pins were thicker then AM3, so olny boards with thicker holes could do the upgrade, and only if the Manufacturer decided so..
First you need to specify your friends budget.
I know the AM3+ socket is slightly different, but I'm not sure if the CPU's are, at the time I bought my CH IV AM3+ didn't exist, and it takes FX CPU's.