Arshavin closes in on Russia return

Arsenal midfielder Andrey Arshavin is nearing the end of his time at the club, according to reports in Russia.

The 30-year-old is being linked with a move back to Zenit St Petersburg by Russian newspaper Sport Express.

The Russia international arrived in north London from the Russian club in 2009, for a club record £15m, and has played in midfield and attack for Arsene Wenger during his stay.

But, with the arrival of a number of new faces, the diminutive star has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates and his work-rate has been called into question by some Gunners fans.

Last year's Russian Premier League champions, Zenit, are now ready to spend £8m on taking the baby-faced schemer back to the Petrovsky Stadium.