Arsenal Transfer News: Moving Andrei Arshavin Is Gunners' Best Option

The Arsenal faithful haven't been kind to Andrey Arshavin at the Emirates.

Every time the 30-year-old Russian takes the field he is showered with boos, and it is apparent that the North Londoners want nothing to do with the captain of the Russian national team.

He joined Arsenal in 2009 during the January transfer window and now, a mere three years later, has been at center of transfer rumors for majority of the season.

According to Mirror Football:

"

Mega-rich Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala have made a move for Arsenal misfit Andrey Arshavin ... However, the Russian transfer window does not shut until next month. That means the sale does not have to be done before 11pm but Arsenal would need to get a replacement before the English deadline shuts. 

Arshavin has also said he would only return to former club Zenit St Petersburg if he goes back to Russia.

"

Obviously Anzhi Makhachkala is not Zenit St. Petersburg, and Arsenal are running out of time if they are to have a replacement ready to go.

The Mirror's report indicates that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger "loves" Arshavin and he is in the club's plan for tomorrow's clash with Bolton.

But Wenger has to make a decision on a player who has failed to produce—only two goals and three assists in in 21 total appearances this year—because he may never get a better opportunity to sell than now.

Arshavin has 18 months left on his deal, but to think he'll thrive or even survive in an atmosphere like one the Gooners have created at the Emirates is foolish.

The club is five points out of the No. 4 spot behind Chelsea as things stand now. Tottenham is already 10 points clear in third and league leaders Manchester City are already a whopping 18 points clear of the North London outfit.

Essentially the Gunners are chasing down Chelsea or nothing at all, and Wenger needs to decide if Arshavin helps that cause at all.

Wenger would be wise to cut his losses now and cash in while he can.