Transfer News: Russian international opens up on potential Chelsea move

Russian star Arsen Zakharyan talks about a potential move to Chelsea

Speaking to Sport Express, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea target Arsen Zakharyan spoke about his potential move to west London amidst him getting ready for the season with Dinamo Moscow.

Chelsea wanted to sign the Russian international in the summer window, but due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the sanctions imposed, the deal could not happen at the time.

The Blues showed their interest to complete the deal worth £12.6m, which is the player’s release. Personal term agreement was not an issue.

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea will go back to make this move happen in January, or wait till the summer. There was a report a few weeks ago saying that Zakharyan is ready to take up Armenian citizenship (not in sporting terms) so that the transaction of the move happens with an Armenian bank, and not with a sanctioned Russian bank in the UK.

The 19-year-old is a talented midfielder who can operate in multiple positions. His preferred position is playing behind the striker as an attacking midfielder. In the latest season for Moscow, he has three goals and six assists in 22 appearances in all competitions.

Chelsea have spent a lot of money on top young talents since the takeover in the summer. Getting Zakharyan would follow that suit, although he is more experienced at the senior level compared to most players of his age.

As expected, we have been active in the January window. After signing David Datro Fofana, Benoit Badiashile and Andrey Santos, the club are close to announcing the arrival of Joao Felix on loan. The Athletic reported that the club will look to sign a defender and a striker this month. Well, the former is done.

More Chelsea News:

• Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
• Chelsea have completed the signing of Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid on loan, says Romano
• Tottenham Hotspur to rival Chelsea in the race to sign Leandro Trossard

Amidst all that, it would be interesting to see if they go back for the Zakharyan deal now. The best thing could be to let him play out this season and make a move in the summer.