Arshavin deal scuppered

(GETTY IMAGES)

Andrei Arshavin made a last-ditch trip to London ahead of a proposed move to Arsenal but a transfer from Zenit St Petersburg was this morning called off.

The 27-year-old Russia playmaker, who caught the eye in last summer's European Championship, was in place to undergo the formalities of the transfer if the two clubs reached an agreement on the fee for the player.

After being pictured in Hertfordshire, key figures in the deal said that Arshavin had left for an airport and the move was off, meaning only a late move from Arsenal would resurrect the transfer.

Arshavin's move was one of the high-profile deals being negotiated on a transfer-deadline day that has been complicated by snowy conditions.

Tottenham were widely reported to be in talks with Liverpool over Robbie Keane's return to White Hart Lane after an unhappy six months at Anfield.

Another big name that was lined up to move was Manchester City's Jo, with Everton ready to take the Brazilian striker on loan to Goodison Park.

Newcastle midfielder Charles N'Zogbia was poised to join Wigan, while Portsmouth have been linked with Spurs youngster Giovani dos Santos after signing Theofanis Gekas on loan from Bayer Leverkusen.

"It has always been a big wish to play in the England," said Greece striker Gekas.

"I believe I can do it, it is one of the toughest leagues in the world but I've scored goals in Germany and hope to do so in England."

Veteran Roma defender Christian Panucci looked set to remain in Italy until the end of the season, according to his agent.

The 35-year-old announced last week his wish to leave Roma after failing to earn regular football, and was linked with Hull and Manchester City.

"Christian will remain at Roma and will respect his contract," said Panucci's agent Oscar Damiani.

"We haven't been able to reach an agreement, the offers we received were not considered good enough by the player."

In the Coca-Cola Championship, Norwich signed Rangers forward Alan Gow on loan until the end of the season.