Arsenal forward Andrey Arshavin will turn down a move to Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala, according to reports.

With the Russian window open until February 24, Anzhi was understood to have begun preliminary talks to sign Arshavin on Tuesday.

However, it is reported that the 30-year-old Russian has told officials that he does not want to leave Arsenal despite becoming a target for fans this season following a number of below-par performances.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has frequently come out in defence of the player he signed three years ago for £12million, adding that his young side is better for having the experienced Russian skipper in the squad.

However, Arshavin's performances have dipped dramatically since his impressive debut season and Wenger's decision to bring back club legend Thierry Henry on loan perhaps proves the Frenchman is not convinced the Russian can ease the goal scoring load currently on the shoulders of star striker Robin van Persie.

The Dutchman tops the Barclays Premier League with 19 goals this season and incredibly also leads the league in shots on target (59) and shots off target (38).

Arshavin only has 18 months left on his current deal and his chances of being offered a contract extension is likely to hinge on how he performs for the club in the remainder of this season.