Some residual thoughts on Sunday’s action in the Russian Premier-Liga:

Lokomotiv Moskva quickly lodged a complaint against referee Maxsim Layushkin after their defeat to Spartak but it was clearly the early mistakes from Loko’s defense [...]]]>

Ari's goal, fed from Alex, gave Spartak Moskva a lead they never relenquished (Photo: Aleksandr Mysyakin)

Some residual thoughts on Sunday’s action in the Russian Premier-Liga:

• Spartak Moskva 2,  Lokomotiv Moskva 1

Lokomotiv Moskva quickly lodged a complaint against referee Maxsim Layushkin after their defeat to Spartak but it was clearly the early mistakes from Loko’s defense that proved to be the truly insurmountable problem. First, off an Alex free-kick in the eleventh minute, Guilherme made a mess of the dead-ball situation. Not coming of his line to challenge the entry pass, the keeper—with assistance from an ill-begotten header from Dmitry Tarasov—inadvertently allowed the chaotic scramble and subsequent goal from Marek Suchý to arise. It takes something very special, indeed, for Suchý to score—that was his first goal in one hundred matches.

While Lokomotiv may believe the no-call on Renat Yanbayev being fouled in the box in the fifth minute would have made the difference, as far as blunders go that certainly pales in comparison to Marko Baša playing Ari onside to allow Spartak’s second goal (which Loko’s also vehemently blames on Layushkin).

Instead of searching for the scapegoat, skeptical fans make ask whether Yuri Semin should have played Baša in the heated match in the first place, after missing the first two weeks due to injury. A legitimate (but nonetheless futile) retroactive question is whether or not Tomislav Dujmovic or Dmitry Sennikov would have been as out-of-step as Baša during that fateful sequence in the eighteenth minute? Should Baša’s return to the starting squad been postponed one more week to allow the Montenegrin to rekindle his chemistry with the rest of the back-line? Could we be so bold as to suggest Semin made a mistake?

Baša is a strong defender who will just need more time to adapt to league play, which should suggest that Lokomotiv’s concerns in the long-run shouldn’t be focused on the back-line. Perhaps the more relevant anxiety comes from the striking core. Currently the pairing of Renat Yanbayev and Oleksandr Aliyev are the only significant contributors to the attack, as Dmitry Sychev has yet to really show up for duty this season and Peter Odemwingie and Dramane Traore are both looking unsettled.

Obviously someone beyond Yanbayev and Aliyev will need to step up if the tough matches coming in succession against Dinamo, Zenit, and CSKA are not to be a total wash.

For Spartak, despite the victory coach Valery Karpin will feel less than content with the showing against Loko. Sure, they managed the three points, but the offensive unit was less than rhythmic. A major part of that discord in attack may be attributed to Welliton’s thigh injury, which caused him to miss the second half on Sunday. Early reports suggest he will be out for two to three weeks, delaying even further the Brazilian synergy that many have expected from the people’s team. Artem Dzyuba has apparently recovered from a respiratory infection and will be available going forward. But shouldn’t Spartak fans be worried about Karpin’s shuffling of line-ups? While the coach looks for the right combinations up front and on the wings, he also seems convinced Albert Riera could also be a solid addition. Rumors continue to circulate that the unwanted Liverpool midfielder is on his way to Moskva. Beyond the spletnik, with Tom Tomsk, Terek Grozny, and FK Saturn to deal with in the upcoming weeks Karpin may feel he has a bit of latitude to allow him to tinker some more with his attack but all three of those clubs have the ability to surprise Spartak if the Red-Whites continue to lack the requisite chemistry.

But, then again, if Alex can build upon his stellar performance in the first twenty minutes of play against Lokomotiv, perhaps the issue of cohesion up front is moot.

(Photo: rubin-kazan.ru)

• Rubin Kazan 0, Terek Grozny 0

Both Andrey Dikan and Sergey Ryzhikov made good first-half saves but their respective clubs—while likely not in need of the lesson—learned that in order to execute your counterattack you need the other club to attack. That sounds sensible, if not downright platitudinous, but with neither club willing or possibly able to launch a strong move forward both clubs seemed at a loss as to how to find a goal.

For Rubin Kazan the early injury to Gökdeniz Karadeniz and the absence of Fatih Tekke (due to a cold)—as well as the continued unavailability of Sergey Semak, of course–are legitimate reasons for the club’s offensive malaise. Perhaps the greatest weakness on Sunday was the general lack of creativity in the attacking third (although Hasan Kabze at times showed he can distribute). Imprecise moves through midfield also obstructed the squad, but that was less their own failing and more to the credit of Terek Grozny, who proved they are strong defensively when they exert pressure on the ball.

Blagoy Georgiev and Shamil Lakhiyalov did a fine job in the center of the pitch to deaden Rubin’s attack and effectively push it to the flanks. And that is where Andrey Kobenko and Dmitry Yatchenko came into play, having the thankless task of slowing the intriguingly placed Cristian Ansaldi at right-back. Perhaps all of those exhausting efforts somewhat hampered the visitors’ movement forward but without much room for counters Terek’s task was clearly to secure the tough point on the road.

Such is why Juan Carlos Arce’s golden, eight-yard chance in the sixty-ninth minute—expertly smacked down by a lunging right fist from Ryzhikov—would have been all the sweeter. In fact, the Rubin keeper kept his squad in the match several times over.

Rubin seems to be starting a trend: look for the win in the last quarter of an hour. With five minutes remaining Rubin started to warm to the goalscoring task but unlike the matches against Lokomotiv and Tom Tomsk, there was misfortune for Aleksandr Bukharov (and a good effort from substitute Adlan Katsaev) and match, of course, ended ni-nil. But it’s a testament to the training from Gurban Berdiýew, who rigorously conditions his players, that allows them to create those late opportunities. We should assume more successful late attacks will be made for Rubin, especially when a new pitch comes to Kazan.

(Photo: saturn-fc.ru)

• FK Rostov 1, FK Saturn 0

It may go under-recognized but Rostov’s team effort was quite solid. Prior to Igor Lebedenko’s beautiful cross deep down the left to set up Aleksandr Pavlenko with his header from inside the six-yard box for the only goal of the match, Rostov didn’t look terribly threatening but did show an ambition not on view in the first two weeks. What made the goal sequence that much more impressive was Rostov’s nonchalant dissection of what has been the most solid part of Saturn’s game, namely their wide players. Having Lebedenko move so far to the left and Pavlenko smartly looking for space inside the area was an aggressive move that obviously paid off. Saturn right-back Benoit Angbwa either thought Alexsey Ivanov was moving back to cover the flank or was simply unaware of Lebedenko’s position. Whatever the case may be, it was an uncharacteristic collapse of a veteran defensive squad and the Rostov faithful certainly reveled in it.

While we are on the topic of Rostov’s fans: you’ve got to love the support emanating from the southern stand of Olimp—2. Really impressive.

The home sides’s performance in the first half continued to impress, as well, as Aleksandr Gatskan proved that although he may not have the most accurate of shots he is certainly capable of intelligently picking out and delivering solid passes to teammates in front of him. It was his pass to the left that set up the cross from Lebdenko for the goal. Then, in the twenty-ninth minute, he gave Roman Adamov a great chance on goal that was promptly sent into the sidenetting. To make it a trilogy, just before the break, Gatskan again found the striker—off a kind deflection—for another good opportunity. If the midfielder’s feeds from central midfield continue we should expect some more solid matches from Rostov.

Feeling the momentum, Rostov’s second half was just as attack-minded as the first—another refreshing aspect of their 2010 look. One stand-out performer—while again acknowledging that it was a genuinely solid team effort—was that of Timofev Kalachev. Running his heart out, the Belarusian had several very good chances on goal in the second half but what was more impressive was his ability to contain Ruslan Nakhushev. With the central midfield of Saturn struggling to develop anything (and this hasn’t been the first match where that is the case), movement down the flanks has been imperative for Saturn’s scarce offense. Kalachev’s positioning on the evening was impeccable, single-handedly taking the full-back out of the match and contributing to the dominance of possession for the home side.

– After managing the team by phone (with poor reception, we might add) during their match against Amkar Perm, Haji Hajiyev will begin his physical presence with Anzhi Makhachkala in the near future. Returning from a vacation in Dubai, Hajiyev met with club president Magomed-Sultan Magomedov on Wednesday to discuss the [...]]]> Loose threads from around the league:

– After managing the team by phone (with poor reception, we might add) during their match against Amkar Perm, Haji Hajiyev will begin his physical presence with Anzhi Makhachkala in the near future. Returning from a vacation in Dubai, Hajiyev met with club president Magomed-Sultan Magomedov on Wednesday to discuss the details of returning as head coach, having previously managed Anzhi on two earlier occasions. His official appointment is expected to be announced shortly. In addition, former Dynamo Kyiv and Krylia Sovetov midfielder Andriy Husin is slated to become his assistant.

–Dinamo Moskva are now officially denying reports that have recently circulated suggesting the Policemen are hoping to acquire Schalke 04 (Germany) striker Kevin Kurányi. The club adamantly insists that they have not engaged in talks with the German club over the 28-year-old,  who is currently tied for the second most goals in the Bundesliga (15 in 26 appearances). Athletic director Konstantin Sarsania, however, has left open the possibility of acquiring a new striker before the transfer window closes in April.

In other Dinamo news, Denis Kolodin has returned to training with the main squad. The central defender has missed the first two weeks of the season due to a thigh injury picked up with the national squad in their friendly against Hungary. Coach Andrey Kobelev has said that Kolodin will be available on Saturday against Zenit St. Petersburg but is, at least initially, erring on the side of caution, preferring to ease Kolodin back into the squad.

Andriy Voronin has also been cleared to play despite having missed practice this week due to residual complications with his knee that have nagged him since Dinamo’s first round match against Spartak Moskva.

– Lokomotiv Moskva is anticipating the return of two defenders. Marco Baša  and Ruslan Kambolov will be available for the club’s third round match against Spartak Moskva.

–Rubin Kazan continues their recruitment of young striking talent. In the near future 18-year-old Belarussian Anton Saroka will train with the club. Currently with Dinamo Minsk’s youth team, Saroka has also been capped for the Belarus junior team.

–FK Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast has announced the loaning out of a pair of 21-year-old midfielders. Ivan Temnikov, who made five substitute appearances with the Aliens last season, has been sent to FK Ural for the 2010 season. In his primary duties with the youth club Temnikov scored eight goals in 25 matches in 2009. Anton Kozlov will also head to the First Division to play with FK Avangard Kursk. Kozlov spent the 2009 season on loan with FK Nizhny Novgorod, netting four goals in 32 matches.

–FK Sibir Novosibirsk, desperate for midfield support, may soon sign Dinamo Minsk captain Sergey Kislyak. The talented 22-year-old midfielder, whose contract expires this summer, had a remarkably strong 2009. Despite playing more of a playmaking role in midfield (though he can also play a defensive midfield position), he scored 7 goals of his own in league play. Kislyak also scored in two Europa League matches with the Minsk club. In 2009 he was a major contributor to the Belarus U-21 national team, netting the only two goals of their European Championship appearance (his blast against Sweden was particularly stunning). His hard shot makes him a great free-kick specialist, but his generally aggressive style could do wonders for a Sibir side in need of some life in the attacking third.

–Tom Tomsk is breathing a collective sigh of relief. A new medical report on the injury to striker Sergey Kornilenko has downgraded the damage. Initially thought to be a ligament tear in his knee, the medical staff now has listed it as a strain. According to Sport-Express, Kornilenko will be unavailable for  his club’s upcoming match against Krylia Sovetov but is expected to return in time for Tomsk’s fourth-round match against Spartak Moskva.

Very near the entirety of the first-half was spent in Lokomotiv’s attacking third, holding 70 percent of possession and offering 13 shots. But Krylia did find space for [...]]]> Three goals within six minutes in the second half allowed Lokomotiv Moskva to comfortably defeat Krylia Sovetov and walk away with their first points of the new season.

Very near the entirety of the first-half was spent in Lokomotiv’s attacking third, holding 70 percent of possession and offering 13 shots. But Krylia did find space for a surprise third-minute opportunity for Leilton who struck a hard shot from the top of the box that appeared to catch Guilherme off-guard but skipped wide.

The other forty-two minutes were Lokomotiv’s. Showing energy and good attacking width, time and again they revealed the malleability of Krylia’s defense. Despite Loko’s numerous chances, however, they were unable to find the snapping point.

The work of Oleg Kuzmin and Renat Yanbayev attempted to stretch Krylia early to allow space for Dmitry Sychev and Dramane Traore inside the box.

Just inside a quarter of an hour, Yanbayev delivered an accurate cross that Traore was able to get on top of put was clipped wide.

Yanbayev flew around Sergey Tkachyov minutes later to pick out Dmitry Tarasov from the byline but the hulking midfielder skied his effort over the goal.

Loko continued their infiltration but Krylia did just enough to break up the attacks. David Yurchenko was not the calmest of keepers but aggressively prevented several dangerous situations from being converted into goals. A hard clash with Traore had the keeper smother the ball in the box, followed by a fantastic save from the young keeper after Kuzmin delivered a fine cross down the right flank that Traore flicked quickly onto goal.

Yurchenko continued to keep the visitors in the match, quickly breaking off his line minutes later to clear a dangerous ball that Sychev was eyeing.

Somewhat frustrated that they hadn’t yet scored, Lokomotiv’s chances began to come from long-range. First an Oleksandr Aliyev free-kick from twenty-four yards was almost squeezed inside the near post. Then, an ambitious try from Charles took a deflection but Yurchenko responded well, tipping it out of play.

Tarasov finished off the half by mucking up several additional attacks and sending yet another Yanbayev cross off the mark but—even though scoreless at the break–it was only a matter of time before Lokomotiv found the goal they were craving.

The Railroaders continued their momentum in the second half, first with Tarasov once again finding great position but lacking the finishing touch, striking a fourteen-yard shot that Yurchenko fell to his left to cover.

But in the fiftieth minute Aleksandr Budanov, looking too restless in defending Dmitry Torbinsky, took the Loko midfielder down in the box and the home squad was awarded a penalty. Aliyev stepped up to take the kick and smoothly finished it to his right for Lokomotiv’s first goal of the season.

Three minutes later Yanbayev, tenacious as ever on the left, was brought down, rather controversially, in the area by Tkachyov. The infraction was indisputable but whether or not it took place in the area remains an open question. Nevertheless, Sychev stepped up and, less smoothly than Aliyev, finished his spot kick to the left and effectively put Lokomotiv’s victory beyond a doubt.

The dismantling was complete after another three minutes, when an Anton Bober foul on Aliyev set the Ukrainian up with a twenty-six yard free kick. It was masterfully taken, curling inside the near post to evade a fully extended Yurchenko—who had no chance of catching the perfectly placed strike.

The last half hour was a mere formality. For Krylia, the first goal of the season is still to come. However, some moments of hope came from substitute Aleksandr Salugin—who seemed to pair up nicely with Yevgeny Savin.

And while Lokomotiv may have overrun their visitors they still have not scored in open play. Substitute appearances in the last half-hour from Peter Odemwingie and Maicon yielded similar pressure from the Railroaders, but with Sychev still looking uncomfortable and Traore’s activity being inconsistent Yury Semin will continue to look for the right attacking combination.

Despite little offensive rhythm and numerous personnel changes, two late goals from Andrey Gorbanets and Aleksandr Bukharov gave Rubin a resounding victory to begin the 2010 season.

Rubin looked to have only a slight advantage in the early stages.  A free-kick from Christian [...]]]>

Aleksandr Bukharov's 90' goal sealed victory on Sunday versus Lokomotiv (Photo: Aleksandr Fedorov)

Despite little offensive rhythm and numerous personnel changes, two late goals from Andrey Gorbanets and Aleksandr Bukharov gave Rubin a resounding victory to begin the 2010 season.

Rubin looked to have only a slight advantage in the early stages.  A free-kick from Christian Noboa in the seventh minute was the best opportunity, ending up in the back of the net but only after Bukharov body-checked Lokomotiv goalkeeper Guilherme and was whistled for the infraction.

Four minutes later, after Lokomotiv had their first signs of pressure, a misplayed ball by Aleksandr Orekhov allowed Dramane Traore to strike a hard shot on the volley inside the area that Sergey Ryzhikov dove to save.

The pace of proceedings dwindled soon thereafter, with both clubs offering long balls up field on account of the bumpy terrain of the pitch. Rubin would almost find success with such an approach, as Noboa lofted a pass from the half-line for Alan Kasaev that Oleg Kuzmin miscleared. With Guilherme off his line Kasaev almost found his way onto the loose ball but a back-tracking Malkhaz Asatiani did enough to interrupt a clear shot on goal.

On the ensuing corner Vagiz Galiulin received a knock that was exacerbated only minutes later by a harsh challenge from Kuzmin that forced him to be subbed off for Fatih Tekke.

Play slowed even further after Guilherme made a stiff two-handed punch on an incoming ball that César Navas was unfortunate to bare the brunt of. Lokomotiv’s physical play continued even further with Dmitry Tarasov receiving a yellow card after elbowing Noboa in the face in the twenty-seventh minute.

Lokomotiv struggled throughout the half to find any sustained attacks as Dmitry Sychev’s fitness, in particular, looked to be restrictive. More possession from Rubin yield little in the way of chances, however. Their best chance would come from a header from Tekke that skirted wide of the far post. But on the whole both clubs appeared frustrated and wanting in terms of creative play.

The first half would come to a close after Traore once again got the better of Orekhov inside the box—but his shot from fifteen yards was poorly taken, drifting wide of the near corner.

Traore started the second half with another great chance that was again created less from his own work than the poor play of Orekhov, whose misplaced header dropped for the Loko striker only yards from goal but Ryzhikov snatched the ball before the visitors could capitalize.

The chances for both sides were few, but Bukharov would have had a decent counterattacking chance ten minutes into the new half were it not for a poor dribble that was easily swept aside.

A thirty-eight yard free-kick from Oleksandr Aliyev created a panic for the Rubin fans after Ryzhikov’s awkward failure to pluck it out of the air fell to Peter Odemwingie, but the winger could not handle the ball in time and it bounced out of play for a corner.

Frustration from both sides continued. Just past the hour mark Tomislav Dujmović, who for the most part put in a solid midfield performance, was yellow carded for a professional foul after Yevgeny Balyakin—who played a comfortable game at right-back–made a rare, dangerous sprint down the right flank.

Bogged down in midfield, Rubin switched up their attacking look by spreading Karadeniz wide to the left, with Kasaev—who was the most eager of Rubin’s attacking players–drifting further to the left. This switch set up a seventieth minute chance for Kasaev that he clipped wide—but it was the first sign of a more ambitious home side.

The choppy affair dragged on and just as it looked as though the match was headed for an uneventful nil-nil draw substitute Andrey Gorbanets, taking over for Kasaev, snapped the deadlock two minutes from time. Noboa created the opportunity after moving up into play to steal a loose ball from Tarasov ten yards beyond the area. A quick flick of a pass to Gorbanets found him in space at the right edge of the box. After two small touches, the midfielder toed a nifty, unexpected low shot past the leg of Asatiani toward the near post which beat a diving Guilherme, deflected off the post, and trickled over the line.

A second goal came two minutes later as Lokomotiv looked to have lost their will to defend. Noboa, receiving a pass from Bukharov forty yards from goal pushed the ball forward with ease to Tekke in what appeared to be an offside position. Guilherme came off his line too late to bother the Turkish forward, who slid a pass back toward the left side that Bukharov comfortably ran onto and slid into the back of the net, clinching the emphatic late victory.

Rubin: Ryzhikov; Balyakin, Orekhov, Navas, Jordi; Karadeniz, Murawski, Noboa, Galiulin (Tekke, 25’, Natkho 93’); Kasaev (Gorbanets, 77’), Bukharov.

Lokomotiv: Guilherme; Kuzmin, Sennikov, Asatiani, Yanbaev; Dujmović, Tarasov; Odemwingie (Glushakov, 81’), Aliyev, Sychev; Traore.

Initially scheduled to close at midnight on 10 March, after consultation with FIFA officials the RFU unexpectedly made the revision only hours before the deadline.

Most agree that the last minute [...]]]> Call it generous or call it haphazard but the Russian Football Union’s executive committee decided on Wednesday to extend the winter transfer window until 8 April.

Initially scheduled to close at midnight on 10 March, after consultation with FIFA officials the RFU unexpectedly made the revision only hours before the deadline.

Most agree that the last minute extension comes specifically in the wake of the continued financial struggles of Krylia Sovetov. While the club from Samara is furiously attempting to exhume itself from massive debts they are currently banned from registering new players.

The situation is certainly desperate for the club; Krylia coach Yury Gazzaev has recently admitted that of the mere eleven players actually under contract with the club only seven are healthy. Should the club not be able to resolve their debts in time to sign the additional twelve players training with the team they will be forced—at the very least—to field youth squad members for their match against Zenit St. Petersburg this weekend.

While money is obviously hard to come by around the league this season, several other clubs may now feel compelled to attempt to add to their squads. Dinamo Moskva is still considered one likely candidate, as they hope to add to their attacking midfield. Lokomotiv Moskva will surely use the extension as an opportunity to at least create more headlines while they try to acquire Roman Pavlyuchenko.

The extension also benefits Tom Tomsk. The Siberian club is currently experiencing problems with the finalization of the transfer of forward Shin Young-Rok.

The complications of the move appear to stem from the Korean striker still being legally attached to Bursaspor. The player walked away from the Turkish club at the end of 2009 due to reported contract violations. While details of the problem still remain sketchy, it appears that Bursaspor has yet to allow Shin to legally unbind himself from the contract, which is necessary for Tom Tomsk before they can finalize his move. What is clear, however, is that the Russian club—who have signed a contract with the player—have contacted FIFA on the matter and are currently waiting for some resolution.

Some of the moves [...]]]> If Dinamo had the most impressive transfer activity this off-season, most will agree that Lokomotiv Moskva had the loudest. Much of its amplitude was generated through the mouth of president Nikolay Naumov. It wasn’t all hot air; by the end of the transfer window there was a respectable accumulation of new bodies.

Some of the moves may have been overshadowed by the grander Naumovian schemes. First there was Naumov’s courting of Roman Pavlyuchenko. Day after day, endless reports detailing contact between Loko’s front office and Harry Redknapp’s henchmen bristled forth as a move was launched to wrestle the striker away from White Hart Lane. The transfer idea—like three-fourths of Naumov’s revelries–never materialized. Nevertheless, Lokomotiv is still convinced that at the end of the English Premier League season they have a good chance of sealing the deal. Stay tuned.

The Pavlyuchenko story was momentarily superceded by the attempted, and then eventually successful, acquisition of Oleksandr Aliyev. The epic (as in drawn out, bordering on laborious) deal was first sealed, only to be dissolved, and then rekindled all in the matter of two months. Aliyev’s history with coach Yury Semin appears to have initiated and finalized the move away from Dynamo Kyiv—and Loko and the RPL are the better for it so long as the midfielder can stay healthy.

Finally, there were endless tales of Marat Izmailov. His recent good health at Sporting (Portugal) has translated into great form, sparking Loko’s remembrance of the days of yore. Or, to say it otherwise, they wanted their midfielder back. For that is how the club sees Izmailov—Loko property—and come the summer he, like Pavlyuchenko, could very well be just that.

But what about the here-and-now? Lokomotiv will be disappointed with anything less than a top-three finish. Should we be startled by the tremendous ambition of Semin and his crew? Loko has had strong aspirations for some time, but after two seventh-place finishes in 2007 and 2008 it took something special (namely, the return of Semin) to really make good on them. Their fourth-place finish in 2009, which allows a return to European competition, can perhaps be even more concretely traced back to an 88th minute equalizer from Dmitry Sychev in the twenty-sixth round against FK Saturn. Never mind the fact they should have won the match, Sychev’s shot from the top of the area clinched a memorable draw that was made even more so by the Railroaders riding the wave of momentum generated that evening to finish off the season with four straight victories. The success was almost even strong enough to secure the Champions League qualification spot were it not for Zenit St. Petersburg having a superior goal differential.

Why should Loko not be convinced they are genuine title contenders? Of the clubs we have previewed thus far Lokomotiv has the greatest depth. The issue, however, is that most of that strength (ala Dinamo) lies in midfield, which poses an interesting challenge for Semin. Will he be able to quickly establish a starting XI that will be cohesive or will he opt for a juggling routine in which he attempts to appease all of his players who are hungry for playing time? The internal competition, in the end, will make the club even stronger as long as the coach can effectively handle any potential dressing-room conflicts. He certainly commands the respect and has the experience to suggest he is capable of sorting it out.

The first acquisitions in the middle were Dmitry Tarasov from FK Moskva and Vladislav Ignatyev from Krylia Sovetov. Astutely taking advantage of both players desperation for financial stability, they are solid midfield pick-ups acquired quite impressively as free agents.

Tarasov will be a starter but will need to become more disciplined, having committed too many unnecessary infractions last year. As a result, Denis Glushakov–who has had a great off-season–will really be competing to get his job back.

Ignatyev will also have to fight his way onto the pitch given that the club boasts so many talents on the wings. Peter Odemwingie, of course, will continue to threaten down the right side. The Nigerian, interestingly, appears ambitious this year, having made comments that he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of scoring 15 goals in 2010. Given that his total in the last two years combined is only slightly more than his magic number suggests it is a bit far-fetched. But should Semin play him up front more often—given the greater depth on the flanks—we could see him inch closer to that hopeful tally.

On the flanks, besides Odemwingie and the dependable Dmitry Torbinksy, the young and very promising Alan Gatagov is likely to have a strong year. Semin trusts the 19-year-old so much that he has flirted with the idea of having him play in a full-back role to get him onto the pitch. Whether or not that was merely a training camp experiment, of course, will be determined once the season gets underway. Haminu Draman, back from a loan with Kuban Krasnodar, will likely be sequestered to the bench—more proof that speed and skill is in abundance for the Railroaders.

In the center of midfield, not only has the inclusion of Aliyev will bring creativity and his own hard shot. The club will also welcome back Wágner—if, that is, he can smoothly recover from a hip injury this off-season. When he does return he too will add to a tremendously long bench. The Brazilian was refreshingly dynamic in his few appearances with Loko in the second half of 2009, not only scoring three goals in nine showings but also proving to be a crafty playmaker capable of assisting his fellow attackers. Expect him, unfortunately, to be out for the first two months of the season.

In the holding midfield role Tomislav Dujmović will receive the bulk of time with Charles likely to assist him. But here lies the real significance of acquiring Tarasov, it allows Semin to initially play an aggressive midfield without truly compromising defense in the center. If able to acquire early leads, Semin can bring in Charles to support the back-line even further.

Further up the pitch, Lokomotiv has some anxiety about the striking core. With so much attacking strength in midfield, however, should the club be so uptight? As it currently stands, they continue to have Dmitry Sychev slated as their starting forward. His 13 goals in 2009 were good enough for fourth best in the league, but Semin will expect even more production from the 26-year-old. There are lingering concerns, however, about his health that may delay or at least limit his time on the pitch in the early weeks of the season.

New signing Maicon has been brought in to support Sychev in attack

Being unable to finalize a deal for Pavlyuchenko over the winter, it looked as though Loko would just wait until mid-season and try again. But in the last few days Lokomotiv’s management appears to have gotten late jitters about their striker options. Repeating recent history, when in doubt  the club looked toward Brazil. On Wednesday, just before the transfer window closed, Naumov sealed the deal for 20-year-old Fluminense striker Maicon. The lean, incredibly quick youngster is not a true sniper but will function primarily in a withdrawn, supporting role for Sychev. Given his age he possesses close control and technical passing ability.

Lost behind all the moves, the most pleasant story of the off-season was the success of forward Dramane Traoré. The 27-year-old Malian, after several less-than-impressive years with the club, elevated his form during a good loan spell with FK Kuban Krasnodar in 2009 (scoring more than a third of the relegated club’s goals). Training once again with Lokomotiv, Traoré appears to have vaulted his game even further—scoring a healthy number of goals and showing some newfound passing skills. His size makes him effective at the tip of the attack, offering a strong presence that should work well with the quality and speed coming in from the wings of the attack. With concerns hanging over Sychev’s fitness, Traoré will get chances early in the season that he will need to capitalize on. If he can, his story could turn into one of the most intriguing of 2010.

As an aside, another interesting addition up top is 19-year-old forward Mirlan Murzaev joining the club from Kyrgyz champs FK Dordoi-Dynamo. While likely to spend most of his time with the reserves, it will be interesting to see if Semin gives the youngster any run-ons in 2010.

Defensively, Lokomotiv tied with CSKA Moskva for the third staunchest in 2009 in terms of goals allowed. No surprise given that a Yury Semin club is bound to be based upon a solid back-line. Like their Muscovite rivals, they have some aging defenders but their conditioning is nowhere near as suspect.

Renat Yanbayev and Oleg Kuzmin return to work the full-back positions—while not ostentatious, they are arguably one of the best, most versatile pairs in the league. Malkhaz Asatiani has grown into a strong central defender thanks to hard work and, in large measure, the trust of Semin. Brought to Lokomotiv in 2003 by the coach, the Georgian followed Semin to Ukraine and found his way back into the Loko starting squad once Semin took the reigns in 2009. With Loko’s captain Rodolfo being sidelined at the beginning of the year, Asatiani will have to continue the strong form he  exhibited at the end of the season while working alongside Marko Baša. With unused Jan Durica being shipped to Hannover 96 (Germany) on loan Lokomotiv is now concerned about defensive coverage, thus explaining the last minute acquisition of FK Moskva’s Branko Ilic—a solid move that ensures the club will have options throughout the year.

Goalkeeper Guilherme could very well be the weakest link—which is impressive for the club given his talent. Conceding fifteen goals and earning six clean sheets in seventeen appearances in 2009,  Semin will demand some improvement in the Brazilian’s game. If he stays healthy he will finally be given the chance to play a consistent role between the sticks. But, just in case, the club now has Aleksandr Krivoruchko—Lokomotiv-2’s best player in 2009. The 25-year-old was effectively promoted this off-season and given his Russian citizenship he appears a strong candidate for the job in the future (especially because Eldin Jakupović has been released).

Prediction: 3rd-4th. A cop-out prediction, admittedly–but it highlights the intrigue behind this club. As Loko currently stand, they have plenty of creativity up front but perhaps not quite enough finishing power to make the leap to a Champions League spot. Should they, against the odds and despite some injuries, establish themselves early with some impressive results (away at Rubin, Spartak Moskva, and Zenit within the first five rounds) and maybe pick up Izmailov and  Pavlyuchenko in the mid-season they will really challenge the hegemonic clubs at the top of the table.

Probable Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Guilherme; Renat Yanbayev, Malkhaz Asatiani, Rodolfo*, Oleg Kuzmin, Dmitry Tarasov, Tomislav Dujmović; Peter Odemwingie, Oleksandr Aliyev, Dmitry Torbinsky**; Dmitry Sychev***.

*Rodolfo will likely be replaced by Marko Baša at the start of the season while he recovers from injury.

**Torbinsky will miss the opening match against Rubin due to a yellow-card ban that has been transferred over from last season.

***Sychev will be splitting time with Traoré and possibly even Odemwingie in the lone striker role as he returns to full fitness.

–Zenit St. Petersburg rumors are once again heating up, with the club being linked today with both a midfielder and a striker.

Apparently the club wants more creativity in its midfield. At least if we are to believe Abola, which has reported that Zenit is considering a €16 million [...]]]>

Sporting's highly versatile, highly priced João Moutinho

–Zenit St. Petersburg rumors are once again heating up, with the club being linked today with both a midfielder and a striker.

Apparently the club wants more creativity in its midfield. At least if we are to believe Abola, which has reported that Zenit is considering a €16 million offer for Sporting (Portugal) midfielder João Moutinho.

After 19 matches Sporting has only registered 28 points, good enough for fourth place in the Liga Sagres but well off the Champions League spots. With that in mind, the Portuguese media has been steadily increasing speculation that the club may be dealing some of their major players.

Coach Luciano Spalletti responded to the rumor by more-or-less not responding: “There are many players who would like to play for Zenit. It’s a known club with big ambitions. Everything is possible.” Fair enough.

In Zenit’s favor is Moutinho’s possible temptation to link up with former Sporting player Danny along with his fellow countryman Fernando Meira. But his talents have been spotted from far and wide, with past stories suggesting that the 23-year-old could move to Everton (England) or Olympique Lyonnais (France) instead.

In other Zenit news, Dinamo Zagreb striker Mario Mandžukić has been considered a possible replacement for soon-to-be departing Fatih Tekke.

The Croatian forward has been linked with a number of clubs this off-season, attracted—surely—by his knack for finding the net. But his €9 million price has pushed most interested parties away.

Recall that prior to Dinamo Moskva acquiring Andriy Voronin the Policemen had been rumored to be interested in the 23-year-old.

–A quick update on Lokomotiv Moskva’s continued pursuit of Marat Izmailov.

According to Record, Loko has increased their offer for Sporting’s midfielder to €6 million—an increase of €1 million from their last offer in January. The Portuguese news outlet is confident that Sporting officials have kindly received the offer and that the Russian’s return to Moskva could be take place as early as next week.

However, as with the case of Moutinho, so much depends upon how desperate Sporting’s financial situation currently is. With Izmailov’s contract valid through 2013 the club certainly does not need to make a hasty move. However, with some concerns over the midfielder’s ability to stay healthy and a restructuring likely to occur in Lisbon in the near future, €6 million could be the best offer they will receive.

Cristian Tănase could be joining Adrian Ropotan in Dinamo's midfield

–It has been widely reported—most actively from the mouth of Konstantin Sarsania–that Dinamo Moskva are scouring the transfer market for an attacking midfielder.

With Yossi Benayoun appearing an unlikely acquisition, and the Policemen also getting a cold shoulder from Newell’s Old Boys’ Mauro Formica, Dinamo’s attention has now turned to Steaua Bucureşti’s Cristian Tănase.

According to Prosport, the Moskva club has already offered €3 million for the 22-year-old’s transfer but the Romanian club is holding out for more cash.

Steaua appear to desire at least €5 million for Tănase due to the fact that 50 percent of the profits from his sale are bound for FC Argeş Piteşti—his former employer.

Tănase only recently joined the Red and Blues, coming to the squad just in time for their rather tepid performance in the Europa League in 2009. But his performance in Steaua’s training camp has attracted significant attention and, perhaps, some significant cash.

–Amkar Perm has announced the signing of midfielder Josip Knežević.

The 21-year-old Croatian has been transferred from NK Osijek, his hometown club where he has been playing since 2005. Knežević has proved himself a competent playmaker—and more recently a goal scorer in his own right– both at the club level and with the Croatia U-21 squad.

A few weeks ago Knežević had been linked with FK Moskva, but with the Citizens luck turning (cough) sour, Amkar have become the beneficiary of the talented young midfielder.

17-year-old Araz Abdullayev looks to be Rubin's latest signing

–Rubin Kazan is likely to sign 17-year-old midfielder Araz Abdullayev. The young Azeri has been with Neftchi Baku since 2008, where he has only recently broken into the starting squad.

Abdullayev was invited to join Rubin’s training camp earlier this month but has now returned to Azerbaijan. Reports suggest that he impressed Rubin officials, however, and may be offered a four-year contract shortly.

Despite his youth, the midfielder has already been capped twice for the Azerbaijan national team.

The Russian transfer rumors have subsided a bit while the RPL squads sweat it out in their respective training camps. While we still have some spletnik on offer, we thought we’d also check in on some of the friendlies that have taken place on Tuesday.

–We’ll start with [...]]]>

Guilherme appears back to full fitness for CSKA

The Russian transfer rumors have subsided a bit while the RPL squads sweat it out in their respective training camps. While we still have some spletnik on offer, we thought we’d also check in on some of the friendlies that have taken place on Tuesday.

–We’ll start with CSKA Moskva’s first match in the Copa del Sol tournament in Marbella, Spain, where the club defeated IF Elfsborg (Sweden) 3:2.

A more extensive report will hopefully follow. But, for now, the highlights: Keisuke Honda (19) and Guilherme (38) were on the receiving end of Milos Krasic assists that put the Army club up by two goals in the first half.

A poorly positioned Sergei Ignashevich allowed Elfsborg’s Fredrik Berglund to score for the Swedish team’s first of two goals in the second half. But a blunder from Elfsborg’s keeper Joakim Wulff would result in an own goal that allowed CSKA to escape with a victory. Nevertheless, the (broken record, I know) sluggishness of CSKA’s defense was disconcerting. In lieu of CSKA’s Champions League match against Sevilla on 24 February, CSKA fans will surely hope for some improvement while the Copa del Sol progresses.

CSKA will play Rosenborg BK (Norway) on Saturday.

–Rubin Kazan 4:0 Strømsgodset (Norway)

Goals: Bukharov (45), Orekhov (48), Portnyagin (72), Badyautdinov (87).

Rubin (first half): Ryzhikov, Kaleshin, Ansaldi, Salukvadze, Navas, Noboa, Semak, Murawski, Ryazantsev, Karadeniz, Bukharov.

Rubin (second half): Ryzhikov, Balyaikin, Orekhov, Popov, Kvirkvelia, Sibaya (Badyautdinov, 65), Kabze, Gorbanets (Galliulin, 74), Bystrov, Kasaev (Orazsakhedov, 74), Portnyagin.

Of note was the performance from 21-year-old Igor Portnyagin. Brought in to train with the main squad after his strong showing with the Rubin reserves during the CIS Cup, Portnyagin has now scored three goals in two friendly matches. On Monday versus Wohlen (Switzerland) the striker netted two.

–In other Rubin news, the club has placed a €8 million bid for AC Milan’s anxious defender Kakha Kaldze. The 31-year-old Georgian has been unhappy this season with the Rossoneri, and has expressed his interest in changing locations. This season Kaladze has only featured in six Serie A matches.

Rubin has also finalized a deal that sends Croatian defender Stjepan Tomas to Gaziantepspor (Turkey). Formerly of Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe, the 33-year-old has signed a deal through the end of the Turkish season with the Gaziantep club—who are currently in 11th place in the Süper Lig.

Tomas had been with Rubin since 2007. In those three years he accumulated 30 match appearances. Last year, however, he only appeared in one league match and one cup fixture.

A knock, but nothing serious, for Spartak's Welliton

–Spartak Moskva 4:2 Timisoara (Romania)

Goals: Dziuba (37), Ananidze (49), Ibson (80), Welliton (85).

Spartak’s starting squad: Pesyakov, Igor Kireev, Jiránek, Stranzl, Makeev, Yakovlev, Sabitov, Ananidze, Gorbatenko, Prudnikov, Dzyuba.

For highlights, follow the link.

In the process of scoring his goal, Welliton suffered an injury to his leg. Taken to a nearby hospital, it appears that the injury is not serious—with coach Valery Karpin claiming the Brazilian should return to training with the squad in several days.

–Lokomotiv Moskva 2:0 UD Marbella

Of note was Oleksandr Aliyev scoring his first goal for his new club–a lovely 30-yard free kick. The type of goal the club hopes to see recur once the season begins. Dmitri Poloz also found the net.

Here are the highlights.

Lokomotiv has been rumored in the last few days to be interested in stealing Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun away from Dinamo Moskva—despite consistent resistance from the Reds management, who claim the player simply is not available.

Chempionat have gone so far as claiming that the Railroaders have reached an agreement with the footballer regarding a personal contract, and hope to soon begin negotiations with the Meyseyside club.

Dinamo have already offered £8 million for the Israeli national captain.

Loko midfielder Alan Gatagov broke his nose during the club’s training camp in Spain. Team doctors expect the player to continue to train shortly, but will be fitted with a special mask—akin to the protective gear that has seemed so popular in Italy this season.

–Zhirkov to . . . Kyiv?

Dynamo Kyiv is rumored to be considering a loan deal for Yuri Zhirkov.  According to The Daily Mail, Zhirkov’s former CSKA coach Valery Gazzaev has made inquires into the possibility of the 26-year-old defender joining the Ukrainian champs until the end of the season.

While Zhirkov has not had frequent playing time with Chelsea since arriving in the summer of 2009, it would be surprising to see him shipped out of West London. With Carlo Ancelloti’s club still dealing with FA Cup fixtures and preparing for Champions League play later this month, Zhirkov may not receive a tremendous amount of time on the pitch but he is likely to be slotted in from time-to-time.

–A Winged Postponement

The Russian Football Union is currently holding hearings over club licensing for the upcoming season. While a mere formality for the majority of clubs, there have been reasons to question the future status of Krylia Sovetov Samara. However, the Wings have managed to postpone their particular case until 15 February, according to their official website. In the meantime the club will desperately be looking for sponsors.

–Spartak Nalchik 5:0 Hrvatski Dragovoljac (Croatia)

In Turkey, Nalchik’s resounding victory saw Marat Bikmoev tally a hat trick, while Vladimir Dyadyun and David Siradze added the other two.

–FK Siber Novosibirsk 1:1 Debrecen (Hungary)

Sibir’s goal was scored by Gennadi Bliznyuk in the 40^th minute.

Siber’s squad (first half): Solosin; Valentić, Klimavičius, Vychodil, Molosh; Čížek, Shulenin, Savenas, Zinovyev; Bliznyuk, Medvedev.
(Second half): Bagautdinov; Aravin, Horák, Kolesnikov, Mineyev; Astafiev, Makarenko, Krug, Vasilijev; Degtyaryov, Shevchenko.

–FK Anzhi Makhachkala has sent 23-year-old defender Giorgi Havalovski on a six-month loan to Inter Baku, according to the Russian club’s official website.

Navalovski has been with Anzhi since 2008, after playing with Dinamo Tbilisi and Olimpi Rustavi (Georgia).

Schalke's Levan Kenia considering a change of scenery

–Zenit St. Petersburg may make a move for young Schalke 04 (Germany) midfielder Levan Kenia, according to Sport-Express.

The 19-year-old Georgian is [...]]]> The first part of our Tuesday full of spletnik, we offer up some quick updates on previous stories and some speculative morsels straight off the Russian presses.

Schalke's Levan Kenia considering a change of scenery

–Zenit St. Petersburg may make a move for young Schalke 04 (Germany) midfielder Levan Kenia, according to Sport-Express.

The 19-year-old Georgian is a highly rated playmaking midfielder, capable of occupying a position in the center or on either flank. His technique and passing skills, however, have seen him most productive in the center of the pitch, leading the attack.

Experiencing a nagging knee injury since joining Schalke, Kenia has only featured in 10 matches this season. The player appears to be the interested party, facilitating the rumor connecting him with Zenit. Having expressed his own interest in playing for the St. Petersburg club, his kind words may spark the negotiations between the two clubs

–In the land of Zenit rumors, there also lies the story of Victor Fayzulin.

Fayzulin, in comments made about his future, said “Recently I have rarely appeared for Zenit, and it is possible that in the coming days I could leave the squad.”

It is suspected that Spartak Moskva is currently keeping a watch on Fayzulin’s availability, and may invite the 23-year-old to join their squad in Belek, Turkey. Zenit have not confirmed these reports.

The former Nalchik man has been with Zenit for two years. In 2009 the winger saw his playing time decline after the acquisition of Vladimir Bystrov.

Just today Fayzulin has backtracked on his recent comments, saying he has no intention of leaving Zenit.

CSKA Sofia's Ivan Stoyanov has been garnering RPL attention

–Spartak officials other wing options on their minds, and are apparently taking advantage of the nonstop football being played in Turkey at the moment, having a look at potential recruits as squads from an assortment of leagues train in the warm climate during the off-season.

Rumors circulating early this week have the Red-Whites warming to CSKA Sofia’s winger Ivan Stoyanov. While the Moskva club has not entered into negotiations with CSKA for the 26-year-old, there is news that team scouts have been closely monitoring his performance during friendlies over the last week.

This season, Stoyanov’s first with CSKA, has seen him settle comfortably into the Reds midfield. Though he has typically played on the wings, with CSKA he has also adapted to a central attacking role that has yielded 8 goals in 13 matches.

Spartak will get a chance for an even closer look at Stoyanov when Spartak face the Sofia club in a friendly on 6 February. It is thought that should he have a strong showing that Valery Karpin and his colleagues may make a formal offer for his transfer. However, should the Fayzulin rumors have a grain of truth, Spartak may feel more inclined to pursue the Zenit man given his Russian passport.

Reports today also suggest interest for Stoyanov coming from the Russian Army men, CSKA Moskva.

–Terek Grozny has officially signed Fluminense midfielder Maurício. The deal is said to be for three years, with a possible two year extension.

Coach Anatoly Baidachny offered his praises for the Brazilian, stating that “he can play almost any position in the midfield equally well. A few workouts were enough to see how much quality the footballer has.”

–Tom Tomsk coach Valeri Nepomniachi and his staff have been out scouting as well. The Siberians are currently considering a move for Steaua Bucureşti right-back Paweł Golański, according to Sport-Express.

Golański has been with Steaua since 2007, having been transferred from Korona Kielce  (Poland) for €1 million. His contract is set to expire this summer, and given that contract extension talks have yet to materialize, the Romanian club is likely to make a transfer move.

Tom Tomsk is also close to signing another Steaua player. Recently the club was linked to midfielder Mihăiţă Pleşan, who has struggled to secure a spot in Steaua’s main squad.

Tom appear close to signing the 26-year-old, and are reportedly finalizing an offer that would see Pleşan receive twice the amount he has been making with more than in Steaua: €300,000 a season.

Andrei Streltsov returns to Anzhi

–The Not-as-famous Streltsov has a new club.

Former FK Khimki right-back Andrei Streltsov has returned to Anzhi Makhachkala. The 25-year-old has signed a one-year contract with the club.

Streltsov was previously with the Dagestan club in 2006-08.

–Red Star Belgrade left-winger Marko Blažić has fallen within the purview of FK Moskva, according to Sportske.

The 24-year-old is the third Red Star player to be linked with FK Moskva—precipitated by the unfortunate confluence of financial turmoil besetting the Belgrade club and the depletion of the Citizens’ squad this off-season.

Previously, the Moskva club had inquired into the availability of midfielder Vladimir Bogdanović and Pavle Ninkov, but both look likely to stay with Red Star.

–Loko’s Rodolfo will miss the beginning of the 2010 season.

On Wednesday Lokomotiv defensive mainstay Rodolfo will undergo a hip surgery in Rio de Janeiro. The ex-Fluminense player will be operated on by a doctor from his former employer, which will likely take three to four months of recovery time.

After months of agony, Aliyev joins the Railroaders

News once again began circulating this weekend that talks had resumed for the 24-year-old, after Loko president [...]]]>

After months of agony, Aliyev joins the Railroaders

News once again began circulating this weekend that talks had resumed for the 24-year-old, after Loko president Nikolai Naumov phoned in a new offer for the unsettled player.

Dynamo Kyiv have confirmed today that they have reached an agreement with Loko to transfer the midfielder. Although the terms were not disclosed, recent suggestions in the Russian press had pegged the transfer to cost Loko €8 million—to be paid in two installments.

In a press release the Ukrainian club stated, “The Dynamo and Lokomotiv clubs have reached an agreement on the transfer of Oleksandr Aliyev to the Moskva club. The parties will sign the necessary documents on 1 February, 2010 to make Aliyev a Lokomotiv player.”

Aliyev’s deal with Loko is expected to be for 3 years. He is should be joining the main squad in Spain on Tuesday.

–Conflicting information

A strange development washed over the Russian press today regarding Lokmotiv Moskva’s decision to terminate the contract of midfielder Davit Mujiri.

Mujiri had joined Lokomotiv from Krylia Sovetov Samara in the middle of 2008, but never truly impressed the [...]]]>

Davit Mujiri's break up from Loko appears not to have been mutual

–Conflicting information

A strange development washed over the Russian press today regarding Lokmotiv Moskva’s decision to terminate the contract of midfielder Davit Mujiri.

Mujiri had joined Lokomotiv from Krylia Sovetov Samara in the middle of 2008, but never truly impressed the Moskva club. It was only at the end of 2009 that the Georgian came under sharp criticism after failing to show up at club gathering on 28 December.

Today Mujiri spoke out against his dismissal, claiming the separation was not mutual—as the club originally claimed–accusing the Moskva club of a breach of contract. The player argues that the accusation that he failed to attend a meeting is false, claming the club was merely trying to find a means of firing him. “The team gathered after the holiday on 8 January. I, like all the other players, attended the first training session. . . . I was handed a dismissal order on 21 January, after having trained for five days.”

“The news came as a surprise to me,” said Mujiri. “I am just shocked. I’m very sorry Lokomotiv’s leadership has behaved in such a way. I do not think that such behavior befits a club wishing to play in the Champions League.”

Mujiri now plans on taking the club to court to settle the dispute.

Loko president Nikolai Naumov defended his club’s decision in an interview with Sovetski Sport. “I am not a supporter of repressive measures,” claimed Naumov. “But carelessness cannot be tolerated. Mujiri knew that he had to go to work on 28 December, as he signed an agreement. Nevertheless, he failed to do so.”

“In the case of Mujiri, who has put forth little effort, I have not seen anything except the desire to receive wages. I simply exercised the right to dismiss a negligent employee. We are operating in full compliance with Russia’s labor laws. I am sure a court, should it come to that, will support us.”

–Kim Dong-Jin has been released by Zenit St. Petersburg.

The St. Petersburg club officially announced the decision on their website, citing the left-back’s unsatisfactory medical examination. The left-back experienced several bouts of fainting last year while on international duty with South Korea, causing him to miss the last seven weeks of the 2009 season.

--Guilherme vs. Tomas

CSKA Moskva coach Leonid Slutsky has decided to spice up the inter-squad competition. At least, that is, in terms of who heads the attack in his 4-2-3-1.

After the conclusion of the Army club’s first training camp, Slutsky announced that if the Champions League was to start tomorrow he would start Guilherme.

“If the match against Sevilla was tomorrow, Guilherme would get the start,” said the Spanish-sun-tanned version of Slutsky. “Why didn’t he compete with Tomáš Necid last season? There were two reasons: Guilherme was recovering from injury, and Necid was in good form. . . . In any case, there will be competition for the forward position. The main thing is that it’s at the highest possible level.”

Guilherme is currently on loan from Dynamo Kyiv. In 2009 the former Cruzeiro striker scored 3 goals in 5 matches for CSKA.

Josip Knežević could be added to the Citizens' midfield

–Any relation to Dario?

FK Moscow is considering the transfer of NK Osijek (Croatia) 21-year-old midfielder Josip Knežević, according to Sport-Express.

An agreement on Knežević’s transfer could take place on 7 February, while the Citizens meet for their second training session in Belek, Turkey.

Why such a precise date? That happens to be the same day that the Croatian club will be in Belek in preparation for the second half of their season.

The 6 ft. midfielder is a playmaker by trade, having become the top assist-man for his club over the last two years. Thus far this season Knežević has been in excellent form, not only efficiently distributing the ball to his teammates but scoring 5 goals in 15 matches. In addition, he has gained considerable experience with the Croatia U-21 club, having featured in 13 matches to date—helping them to their current position atop Group 7 in Euro-2011 qualification.

–Fire up the Cristian Ansaldi rumor mill, as Rubin Kazan are showing interest in Aalborg BK (Denmark) left-back Michael Jacobsen. The Danish international was under the scrutiny of Ruby scouts while in Thailand participating in the Queen’s Cup.

While no formal proposal has been made [...]]]>

Aalborg's Michael Jacobsen (L) could be Rubin's future left-back

–Fire up the Cristian Ansaldi rumor mill, as Rubin Kazan are showing interest in Aalborg BK (Denmark) left-back Michael Jacobsen. The Danish international was under the scrutiny of Ruby scouts while in Thailand participating in the Queen’s Cup.

While no formal proposal has been made for the 24-year-old player, it is believed that the Aalborg club is willing to part with Jacobsen for €2 million. The player, however, seems reluctant to leave Denmark, according to Sport-Express.

Jacobsen began his career as a central defender, but now currently operates at left-back. He debuted for the Denmark national team last year, to date being capped five times.

–CSKA’s formidable opponents.

Lyon midfielder Ederson has long been targeted by major clubs in Italy—Internazionale and AC Milan, most specifically—but CSKA Moskva have joined the consideration party. The 24-year-old Brazilian winger has rumored to be rumored on his way out of France for the last month, as he searches for first-team time.

While AC Milan seem the front-runner in this race, CSKA’s attachment to Ederson’s story seems motivated by the eventual departure of Miloš Krasić and the surety of a starting spot in their line-up, something the Milan club may not be certain to offer with as much conviction.

–Sergei Kornilenko’s future still remains uncertain, as the Zenit St. Petersburg striker, for now, will not be joining West Ham United.

Kornilenko is said to have gotten on well with Hammers coach Gianfranco Zola, who apparently gave the player some valuable one-on-one time during some recent training sessions. Instead the distaste for the Belarusian appeared to come from the club’s ownership, which refused to cough up the £8 million for his transfer.

Oleg Artemov—who, incidentally, is also Roman Pavlyuchenko’s agent–kept open the possibility of a loan spell with West Ham for Kornilenko, but for now talks have ceased.

Vincenzo Grella the latest former Spalletti-ite to be linked to Zenit

–Another entry into the Zenit St. Petersburg rumor archive concerns Blackburn Rovers midfielder Vincenzo Grella. Zenit have apparently offered €5 million for the Australian international.

Formerly of Empoli, Parma, and Torino, Grella has been with Blackburn for two seasons. The central midfielder hasn’t received a start since mid-December, perhaps suggesting that he is eager to look elsewhere for playing time in the run-up to the World Cup.

Grella is neither the first Aussie to have been connected to Zenit this off-season, nor—of course—the first former player of Luciano Spalletti. Galatasaray’s Harry Kewell had a look from the St. Petersburg club a few weeks ago. And, concerning Spalletti’s former players from Empoli, Udinese, and Roma . . . well, the most succinct way of putting it would be to say it’s been a cavalcade.

–A Scottish sensation?

Over the weekend The Daily Mail designated three Russian clubs—Zenit St. Petersburg, Rubin Kazan, and Lokomotiv Moskva—as interested parties in the acquisition of Rangers’ striker Kris Boyd. The tabloid is predicting a yearly payout for the Scottish international to be somewhere in the region of £1.3 million a year—amounting effectively to a £7,000 a week pay raise.

If he could maintain his current work-rate that would be money well spent. Boyd is averaging one goal a match, netting 19 in 19 appearances this season.

–More Loko motifs

While Lokomotiv president Nikolai Naumov could be amused by the Boyd rumor, he appears deadly serious of some other possibilities for the striker position that his club feels the need to fill. He has gone so far as offering up knowledge that there are several alternatives beyond the tabloid-news stealing Roman Pavlyuchenko.

In an interview with RIA Novosti, Naumov revealed his club was still considering Pavlyuchenko as an option but were currently in negotiations for the transfer of a Brazilian striker who he would not name. In addition, Naumov confirmed Loko’s interest in an Argentinean. Interestingly, the deals were not exclusive; Naumov claimed the purchase of either South American did not preclude the transfer of the unhappy Spurs striker.

19-year-old Maicon linked with Loko

While it has already been discerned that Joaquín Boghossian is the Argentinean striker in question—but, it should be said, he is actually Uruguayan, he only plays in Argentina–there is some mystery behind the identity of the Brazilian.

Sports.ru is reporting that the striker in question is Fluminense’s Maicon. The speedy 19-year-old forward has not developed a strong reputation in Brazil as of yet—appearing mostly as a substitute in 36 appearances with club, scoring 5 goals overall—though he did have flashes of brilliance alongside Fred near the end of last season. His good showing with Brazil’s U-20 team in Egypt last year did allow him to gain some recognition—particularly his 2 goal outing against Germany. But, like some of his fellow U-20ers—his value could be inflated.

Even still, given the indeterminacy of the young Brazilian’s prospects, he presents Loko with a cheaper option up-front should the other deals not materialize.

–In other, more concrete, Loko news: the club has decided to temporarily part ways with Baye Djiby Fall, sending him on a one-year loan to Molde FK (Norway).

It was earlier reported that the 24-year-old Senegalese striker was being considered by Brøndby IF (Denmark).

Fall was goalless for Loko in his 12 matches in 2009.

–Also, following up on a previous story, Lokomotiv has decided to sign 19-year-old Kyrgyz striker Mirlan Murzaev.

The Railroaders staff was pleased with the young Dordoi-Dinamo player during the squad’s camp in Turkey. First the time being Murzaev will play with the reserve squad, but should his progress continue he, of course, could see some time with the first team.

Mihăiţă Pleşan is the RPL's latest Romanian recruit

–FC Steaua Bucuresti midfielder Mihăiţă Pleşan has shown up on FK Tom Tomsk’s off-season wish list, according to CISsoccer.com. The Tomsk club is ready to part with €100,000 for the 26-year-old Romanian.

According to a Steaua officials, “many teams from Russia are interested in [Pleshan],” claiming that the midfielder could be leaving the club’s training camp in the very near future.

Pleşan has seven caps and one goal for Romania.

–In other Tom Tomsk news, the club has decided to keep 35-year old Alexsei Polyakov onboard for 2010.

The veteran keeper’s contract with the Siberian club is set to end at the end of the year, leaving some to speculate earlier that he’d be looking for a new employer.

–Amkar Perm may bestow a senior squad spot upon Marius Papsys.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has been toiling away with Amkar’s reserve squad, in the process catching the eye of Amkar’s coach Rashid Rakhimov. Rakhimov will continue to monitor the player’s potential as he joins the senior squad’s training camp.

–Krylia Sovetov Samara, currently struggling for personnel due to financial difficulties, appears to have found some enforcement from former Yugoslavia.

23-year-old midfielder Mahir Karic from NK Celik Zenica (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and 26-year-old Serbian striker Stefan Račić will apparently be joining the Feathers. On Sunday, both players took part the team’s practice. It remains uncertain whether either player will sign a contract with the club.

Krylia also announced they will be playing their first match of this off-season against FK Metalurh Donetsk (Ukraine) on 27 January.

–Dan Petrescu still has the heartstrings of some Italians.

It has been reported that Livorno owner and president Aldo Spinelli has tried to persuade FK Kuban Krasnodar’s new coach to come take the helm of the Amaranto after Serse Cosmi walked away this weekend.

The former Foggia and Genoa player, however, rejected the proposal and seems determined to stick with the Russian First Division club.

With so much attention focused on Roman Pavlyuchenko, you would have thought there were no other striking options—excepting, of course, Zenit’s Italian predilections–for Premier Liga teams looking to bolster their respective offenses.

But the rumor mill has started to expand. Lokomotiv Moskva is reportedly engaged in an attempt [...]]]>

Patience may help Lokomotiv land Joaquín Boghossian

With so much attention focused on Roman Pavlyuchenko, you would have thought there were no other striking options—excepting, of course, Zenit’s Italian predilections–for Premier Liga teams looking to bolster their respective offenses.

But the rumor mill has started to expand. Lokomotiv Moskva is reportedly engaged in an attempt to acquire Newell’s Old Boys star striker Joaquín Boghossian. The 22-year-old Armenian-Uruguayan has been with the Rosario club since this past summer but is still on the books with C.A. Cerro (Uruguay).

Boghossian exploded onto the Argentinian scene in 2009, putting in an exceptional performance that was one of the highlights of the entire Apertura. His 11 goals not only made him Newell’s highest scorer but the third highest scorer in the league—leaving some calling for his inclusion on Uruguay’s national squad in South Africa.

While certainly having proved his shooting capabilities with both legs in 2009, his efficient use of his size (6ft 5in) makes him a great target man, able to hold up the ball and distribute with precision. It is surely the versatility that Yuri Semin has in mind with his club’s pursuit, seeing Boghossian as a desirable partner for Dmitri Sychev or Peter Odemwingie in Loko’s attack.

Negotiations between the two clubs have begun. According to Sport-Express, Loko’s wish to nab the tall forward may have to be restricted to a summer acquisition, as Newell’s are hoping to retain him through the Copa Libertadores. But an August move would at least have the former player join Loko in time for their Europa League outing.

But Lokomotiv are certainly not alone in their interest for the young striker. Espanyol, Aston Villa, Bayer Leverkusen, and Sampdoria have all made inquiries in the last month.

–Is Spartak Pavlyuchenko’s last hope?

Spartak Moskva looks like the last hope for Roman Pavlyuchenko to return to Russia in 2010. Unfortunately for the fans of the People’s team, the club’s initial bid was rejected. But reports today have suggested that Spartak remain hopeful of returning the striker, [...]]]>

Roman praying Spartak will come through

–Is Spartak Pavlyuchenko’s last hope?

Spartak Moskva looks like the last hope for Roman Pavlyuchenko to return to Russia in 2010. Unfortunately for the fans of the People’s team, the club’s initial bid was rejected. But reports today have suggested that Spartak remain hopeful of returning the striker, but only if Spurs are willing to budge from their stubborn wish to recoup the £13.8 million they paid out for the player in 2008.

While coach Valery Karpin would not reveal the sum of his club’s offer, it has been speculated that it falls just short of £10 million. The boss was kind enough to reveal, however, that negotiations will continue.

Some do still consider Lokomotiv Moskva a candidate for Pavlyuchenko’s services. But there is some ambiguity as to the fervor of their desire.

First is the question of the club’s finances, which have raised suspicion after Loko’s recent attempts to add to their midfield—a greater priority for the club, it should be said. The second is Pavlyuchenko’s loyalty. Having recently spoken of how he would not want to play for Zenit St. Petersburg—going so far as claiming it was simply unimaginable—would the striker show the same resistance should a Moskva club that is not Spartak try to reel him in?

–Loko still needs a midfielder

According to Sport-Express, Lokomotiv have ceased negotiations with Dynamo Kyiv over the transfer of Oleksandr Aliyev. Simultaneous with that report, however, Lokomotiv president Nikolai Naumov left open the possibility that talks would resume in the future. The 24-year-old and his Ukrainian club have been engaged in heated talks with Loko since early December.

Naumov also attempted to clarify the situation surrounding his club’s possible acquisition of Sporting’s Marat Izamilov.

Naumov left open the possibility of Izmailov’s return, suggesting that talks are ongoing. However, the president was resolute in saying that his club would not be willing to pay more than €6 million, and if only paid in installments. Naumov felt encouraged that the move would take place, claiming the footballer would soon meet with Sporting’s management to ask to be released.

Previously, the Portuguese press were reporting that Loko were willing to pay €8 million for the midfielder.

–As quickly as it emerged it falls away

News had only surfaced two days ago that Zenit St. Petersburg were attempting to acquire Fluminense’s striker Fred. After reports that the club had agreed to financial terms with his current employer, the player has stepped in to put the kibosh on the transfer.

Today it has been reported that the 26-year-old, despite being given a proposal that would see him rake in 3 million a year, has declined the invitation—apparently sharing the same lack of interest that was evidenced by fellow countryman Cicinho.

Menez's Spalletti connection could see him bounce Rome

So Spalletti’s quest continues. As do the rumors. Which brings us to 22-year-old Jérémy Menez.

The AS Roma forward has fallen even further down the pecking order with the arrival of Luca Toni—leaving some suspecting a winter move for the former Monaco man. The recent criticism thrown his way by coach Claudio Ranieri is surely a major sign of his looming departure

Menez is said to be valued at around 10 million euros, the price Zenit was reportedly willing to shell out for Roman Pavlyuchenko. Olympique Marseille and Liverpool FC, however, are also considered interested parties.

And, according to Italian press, Menez is not the only striker in Rome—this week—being courted. Lazio’s 32-year-old front man Tommaso Rocchi is also suspected of being up for consideration. The former Empoli man has struggled this season, netting only two goals in 16 matches.

–The live action Formica

As previously reported on this site, Dinamo Moskva’s quest for an additional midfielder has taken them to Argentina.

Scouts from the club traveled to Rosario to continue their scouting of Newell’s Old Boys’ playmaker Mauro Formica, who will be participating in a scrimmage prior to his club’s Copa Libertadores match-up against Emelec.

The 21-year-old caught the Moskva’s club attention after a solid Apertura performance and has been scrutinized from afar though Dinamo’s extensive DVD collection. But the club wanted to see the midfielder in person before they proceed with negotiations, according to La Capital.

Clubs in Spain and Greece are also reportedly interested in Formica. But those with the most attraction will have to stop being coy and pick-up the pace of talks. The transfer window in Argentina closes on 4 February.

Tanasijević takes his experience to Samara

–Tanasijević wants playing time

Veteran defender Jovan Tanasijević is on the verge of becoming the first 2010 acquisition for Krylia Sovetov Samara. The former Dinamo Moskva man has joined the Feathers at their training camp.

Tanasijević had been with Dinamo since 2003 (broken up by a loan spell in 2006 with FK Rostov), but his time on the pitch lessened considerably in 2009, with the player only appearing 12 times as a fill-in—given Dinamo’s injury-plagued season–both in the center and as a full back.

Tanasijević appears to not simply be making the trip to tryout for the squad. Rather, Rostov are already convinced of his wares, so the Montenegrin should be signing a contract shortly.

–A different Fluzão has no problem with Russia.

Terek Grozny is close to signing Fluminense midfielder Maurício. The 21-year-old will soon fly to Moskva, where he will meet with Terek officals, according to Sport-Express.

After arriving in Moskva the defensive midfielder will undergo a medical examination, and if all goes well he will sign a three-year contract.

“At first I was afraid of taking such a sharp turn in my career,” said Maurício, “but I’m now convinced that it is the right thing. Many Brazilian footballers dream of moving to Europe, and my chance has come.”

–Don’t overlook the Commonwealth Cup

Inter Baku midfielder Rahman Hajiyev has caught Rubin Kazan discerning eye.

According to Azerisport, Ruby scouts that were on-hand at the Commonwealth Cup have been impressed by the 16-year-old’s talents. It is thought that a transfer move may be in the works.

Rubin’s reserve squad, incidentally, has advanced to the semifinals of the tournament. They will face Turkmenistan’s MTTU on 22 January.

The other braided Brazilian

–CSKA Moskva may be shipping another player to Flamengo to join Vagner Love.

Ramón looks to be heading to Mengão in the near future.

Last summer the former Corinthians midfielder was loaned out to Krylia Sovetov—where he only appeared in one match.

Globoesporte is reporting that Flamengo have already reached a verbal agreement with both the Moskva club and the player, who is said to have accepted a pay reduction to lubricate the move. The deal has not yet been finalized, but a six-month loan could be announced as early as Friday.

Ramón’s arrival at CSKA Moskva in 2007 came with many expectations, and a hefty exchange of cash–having been transferred for 6.2 million euros. But the 21-year-old never seemed able to settle into CSKA’s squad, playing in 25 matches overall and scoring one goal. But his chances of actually seeing the pitch with Flamengo seem higher, although he still is likely to split time with Dejan Petković.

–Yet another lease deal made by CSKA

The club has agreed to send goalkeeper Yevgeny Pomazan—who will turn 20-years-old at the end of this month—on loan to FK Shinnik Yaroslavl, according to Sport-Express.

The deal for the Russia U-21 keeper is expected to run for the full year.

–Maloyan could be back

Artur Maloyan continues to mature, albeit on loan

Another U-21 player is being sent on loan. Spartak Moskva striker Artur Maloyan will be joining FK Salyut-Energia Belgorod. The loan agreement stipulates that Maloyan could be brought back by Spartak, if necessary, in the summer.

Maloyan scored one goal last year while on loan at FK Anzhi Makhachkala. The Belgorod club’s coach Miroslav Romaschenko has experience with the youngster, having coached the forward while managing Spartak’s reserves in 2008.

–Kalachev’s Rostov rendevous

Krylia Sovetov Samara midfielder Timofei Kalachev is readying a move back to FK Rostov.

Recently the 28-year-old Belarusian was allowed to break his contract with the Samara club by the Russian Football Union after the club failed to pay his salary.

The player will join the rest of Rostov’s squad on 24 January, when the club returns from their training camp in Turkey.

Rubin can't shake the thought of Mauricio Pereyra

More unsubstantiaed rumors coming out of Italy!

Naciónal (Uruguay) midfielder Mauricio Pereyra hasn’t been forgotten by Rubin Kazan.

The 5ft. 8in. 19-year-old was on the minds of Rubin officials last summer after witnessing him in the Copa [...]]]> –Fool me once . . .

Rubin can't shake the thought of Mauricio Pereyra

More unsubstantiaed rumors coming out of Italy!

Naciónal (Uruguay) midfielder Mauricio Pereyra hasn’t been forgotten by Rubin Kazan.

The 5ft. 8in. 19-year-old was on the minds of Rubin officials last summer after witnessing him in the Copa Libertadores. Pereyra, despite his limited time on the pitch with Nacional, has returned as a winter transfer target.

A deal was apparently close to being finalized last August, but came to naught after the player opted to stay with Naciónal in the run-up to the U-20 World Cup. But Rubin continue to be impressed enough by the quality Pereyra has shown both defensively and offensively and have decided to try again.

According to Itasportpress, a new $1.2 million offer for the midfielder has been phoned in from Kazan (bizarre given their previous offer of $2.3 million plus a percentage of his future sale). Naciónal quickly rejected the proposition but are still willing to negotiate.

–One more test

Two days after Sport-Express reported that Zenit St. Petersburg defender Kim Dong-Jin would not renew his contract with the club due to health problems, the same publication now reports a new development.

Zenit officials have now stated that Kim will return to St. Petersburg in the near future to undergo yet another examination. For now it appears there is a chance he will renew with the club, but the full-back’s future in Russia will only become clear in the near future.

–Love hopes for more affection in Rio

CSKA Moskva has agreed to transfer the transfer, as it were, of Vágner Love. Love will move from Palmeiras, where he has been on loan since the summer of 2009, to Brazilian champs Flamengo. The contract stipulates that the loan will last through June of 2010. However, if Flamengo remains within the Copa Libertadores, Love can be made available for another month.

Dramane Traoré will be trying to get on Loko's squad

–Won’t be the starter but still impressive

Some interesting developments coming out of the Lokomotiv Moskva camp:

According to the club’s official website, 16-year-old goalkeeper Egor Generalov has begun training with the senior squad while pre-season work continues in Belek, Turkey.

Striker Dramane Traoré, who was on loan to FK Kuban Krasnodar last season, is expected to fight for a spot on the Loko squad for the upcoming season. But he hasn’t had a chance as of yet, as the Malian striker has been stuck in Moskva after complications obtaining a visa.

Last year with the Krasnodar club Traoré netted 8 goals.

And, as expected, midfielder Stanislav Ivanov has been sent on loan to FK Rostov.

The Moldovan international is expected to join the Selmashi’s training camp in the near future.

–Khagush will bid his time in Rostov

In other Rostov news, Anri Khagush will join the squad on loan from Rubin Kazan for 2010. The 23-year-old right-back was previously on a loan assignment with FK Kuban Krasnodar.

Khagush’s return to Rubin had to have seemed far-fetched after the club signed Vitali Kaleshin to a full-time contract at the end of December.

–Baidachny worries about goals, strokes his non-existent beard, and tries to track Popov down

Denis Popov could be coming back

Former CSKA Moskva striker Denis Popov could be returning to the Premier-Liga.

Terek Grozny’s coach Anatoly Baidachny, according to Sovetski Sport, has made an inquiry into acquiring the 30-year-old.

Popov is currently on the books of FK Khimki, but has only appeared in two matches for the club. His last success was in 2008, in which he went on a mid-summer scoring spree with First Division FK Chernomorets Novorossiysk before being transferred to FK Torpedo Moskva, where he kept scoring. By the end of the year he had tallied 24 goals in total, making him the top scorer in the division.

–We’ve heard Zaragoza is lovely this time of year

Jiří Jarošík’s New Year’s resolution–to leave the lovely city of Prague–has come true. The Krylia Sovetov Samara player, after speculation that he may return to the RPL, has decided instead to sign on with Real Zaragoza (Spain).

The Czech international had been training with his former club Sparta Praha while waiting for offers to come in. And he didn’t have to wait for long. The move to La Liga makes Spain the fifth country Jarošík will have played in.

An interesting aside, which was noted on Real Zaragoza’s website: in the four prior countries Jarošík played he managed to win league titles (with Sparta Praha in the Czech Republic, CSKA Moskva in Russia, Chelsea in England, and Celtic in Scotland).

Amkar retains prospect Vadim Gagloyev

–Two Permian extensions

Amkar Perm defender Ivan Cherenchikov has decided to stay with the Red-Blacks.

Despite having offers from FK Moskva and FK Saturn, the 25-year-old has decided to stay put, signing a new three-year deal. Cherenchikov cited his four-and-a-half month old baby as his primary motivation to continue with Amkar.

In addition, 20-year-old midfielder Vadim Gagloyev extended his contract with the team. The right-back will be tied to the club through 2012, according to Amkar’s official website.

–Even more Red Star connections

Word on the street is that Tom Tomsk is trying hard to bulk up their defense. Today it was revealed that coach Valeri Nepomniachi has former Red Star Belgrade and Dynamo Kyiv right-back Marjan Marković in mind.

Currently with NK Istra 1961 (Croatia), the 28-year-old Serbian international will soon join the squad in Turkey for a good old-fashioned looking over.

–A different trip to Turkey

Dinamo Moskva’s long-time goalkeeper Žydrūnas Karčemarskas will move to Turkey. And this time it’s not for training camp.

The 26-year-old Lithuanian international, whose contract with Dinamo expired at the end of 2009, has signed a four-year contract with Gaziantepspor.

Karčemarskas was with Dinamo since 2002 but had not featured in league play since October of 2008.

–Our first mention of FK Torpedo Armavir!

Lokomotiv Moskva defender Vitaly Marakhovsky has arrived at camp of Dinamo Minsk for a trial with the Belarusian club. The 21-year-old was on loan last season with FK Torpedo Armavir of the Second Division (South) and has continued to improve his game.

–No relation to the sycophantic American film director, that we know of.

On a day that saw a young Serbian slip from the grasp of the RPL, another—admittedly older, and less touted—Serbian has appeared in his stead.

Red Star Belgrade [...]]]>

Another Serbian recruit: Red Star's Vladimir Bogdanović (L) (REUTERS/Ivan Milutinovic)

–No relation to the sycophantic American film director, that we know of.

On a day that saw a young Serbian slip from the grasp of the RPL, another—admittedly older, and less touted—Serbian has appeared in his stead.

Red Star Belgrade athletic director Ivan Adzic, revealed that his club is currently in talks with an undisclosed Russian club for the transfer of all-around midfielder Vladimir Bogdanović.

“It is true that there has been offer, but I don’t want to name the club nor talk about the details of the negotiations until they are finished,” said Adzic to Sportske.net.

According to the publication, representatives of the Russian club have flown to Belgrade to begin what appear to be the final stages of the negotiation.

The hard-working 23-year-old has been featured in Red Star’s starting squad for the last year-and-a-half. But it was in 2007 that Bogdanović first received praise, after his good form while on loan with FK Smederevo. His performance led to a call up to the Serbian national Olympic team in 2008.

Given the possible transfer fee, which if we had to speculate we’d put at around €750,000, several Russian clubs are a possibility. The most likely candidates are Dinamo Moskva and FK Moskva. Dinamo’s director Konstantin Sarsania mentioned today that his club was close to signing a foreign attacking midfielder. It is no secret that the Citizens have also been looking around for midfielders, and with the club already in talks with Red Star for full-back Pavle Ninkov, perhaps their hoping for a discount if they buy in bulk.

But, if our conjectures are horribly awry, another possible candidate could be FK Saturn Moskovskaya Oblast, who has also been rumored to be on the market for midfield reinforcements of late. The funds available to Saturn, however, are uncertain.

–Tekke about to cross the T

Zenit St. Petersburg and Trabzonspor appear close to settling matters over the transfer of Fatih Tekke.

The only remainder is Tekke’s personal contract. And 32-year-old striker, with the assistance of his agent, is currently talking terms with the Turkish club.

Recall that Tekke’s contract with Zenit expires this coming August, but both clubs have been eager to close a deal this winter.

How many weeks of rumors must we endure?

–Imagine how many trees would have died if these Pavlyuchenko rumors weren’t only on the internet.

The British media has decided to return to the Pavlyuchenko story in the last two days. Reports out of London have Zenit offering €11.5 million to Tottenham Hotspur for striker Roman Pavlyuchenko.

The English club is steadfastly keeping to the asking price of €15.5 million—the amount Spurs paid Spartak Moskva back in the summer of 2008–but their stubbornness may relax some what by the end of January to allow a compromise. At least if Spurs want to pay for their new acquisition, Internacional midfielder Sandro.

But we should keep in mind that David Di Michele still remains an option for Spalletti and Zenit, at least in the minds of the Italian media. The likelihood of the veteran striker leaving Torino has become somewhat more probable now that the circumstances at the club have become a little more clear [n.b. details this author failed to note the following details last week!].

Last week, during a club gathering in honor of Di Michele’s 34^th birthday, a group of Ultras attacked members of the squad. In a statement released by the Italian club it was explained:

“Outside the Il Cavalieri restaurant in Turin . . . Riccardo Colombo and Rolando Bianchi were surrounded by around 25 people wearing masks and then attacked with slaps in the face and repeated kicks to their car. At that point the ultras burst into the restaurant and attacked players Aimo Diana, Marco Pisano, Francesco Pratali, Massimo Loviso, Matteo Rubin, Paolo Zanetti, Angelo Ogbonna and Di Michele.”

It appears the events surrounding the altercation have led to Di Michele’s wish to depart. It is anticipated, should he be transferred, that the fee would be around €2.5 million.

–Naumov’s lightening round of rumors

Loko president Nikolai Naumov

Lokomotiv Moskva president Nikolai Naumov has confirmed Ján Ďurica’s move to Hannover 96 (Germany).

In comments made to Sovetski Sport, Naumov reported that the deal is set for a six-month loan, with a later option for the Bundesliga outfit to transfer the defender outright at the end of the season.

The financial details were kept a secret, but the paper approximates that the deal could be worth €3 million.

Naumov was also able to edify us on some other Loko rumors: Hull (England) appear close to signing a six-month loan for midfielder Haminu Dramani; FK Rostov remains in touch regarding their proposed takeover of Stanislav Ivanov; attacking midfielder David Mujiri may be sent on loan to FK Moskva; and goalkeeper Eldin Jakupović—once linked with Tottenham–could now be going on loan to Sheffield United.

FK Rostov not ready to part with Aleksandr Pavlenko

–Not so fast Mr. Pavlenko.

Spartak Moskva midfielder Aleksandr Pavlenko has been asked to stay, just a little bit longer, in Rostov.

FK Rostov coach Oleh Protasov has said recently that he would like to retain the player, who featured in 9 matches in the center of Rostov’s midfield—scoring 3 goals–after arriving on loan in August. Upon receiving word that Pavlenko was undergoing a physical at Spartak headquarters—suggesting his possible inclusion in Spartak’s squad next year—Protasov has decided to further force the issue over the 24-year-old. Spartak’s response is pending.

–How do you say “get me out of here” in Hungarian?

Amkar Perm defender Miklós Gaál is hoping to change clubs.

Last season the Hungarian had much time on the bench to brood his dissatisfaction, having managed only 7 appearances at the left-back position. Knowing of Gaál’s anxiety, Terek Grozny was interested in relocating him Chechnya, but now it appears the 28-year-old has new options to consider from abroad, according to Sport-Express.

“I have said before that my dream is to play for the national team . . . but it requires constant practice at club level. Last season I was not playing in the Amkar squad as often as I wanted, and now my agent has found two outside options. The most attractive option for me is an offer from a small Spanish club in dire need of a left defender. This is a huge opportunity and hopefully Amkar will ask for a reasonable amount for the transfer fee.”

Amkar president Valery Chuprakov subsequently stated that if a good offer was to be received his club would certainly consider the move.

No agreement has been made, but midfielder Shamil Lahiyalov could be leaving Terek Grozny for Rubin Kazan. According to Chempionat, the two clubs are engaged in talks that could send the 30-year-old to the Russian [...]]]>

Grozny ain’t big enough for two Shamils?

Shamil Lahiyalov could be Alejandro Domínguez's replacement in Kazan

No agreement has been made, but midfielder Shamil Lahiyalov could be leaving Terek Grozny for Rubin Kazan. According to Chempionat, the two clubs are engaged in talks that could send the 30-year-old to the Russian champs. But at the moment the clubs are still trying to iron-out their financial disagreements.

Lahiyalov has had success as a play-making midfielder since joining Terek in 2007. It was in 2009, however, that saw his finishing abilities really shine, scoring 11 goals in 24 appearances.

Rubin Kazan has also decided to take a more extensive look at goalkeeper Leonid Muslin.

The FK Dinamo Minsk (Belarus) keeper, who has been on loan with PFC Oleksandria (Ukraine), previously minded the net for Dynamo Kyiv. Rubin invited Muslin to participate in their training last year—and now wish to evaluate him in Turkey as part of their squad’s pre-season training.

• Ďurica’s discontent

Over the weekend Ján Ďurica’s impatience with Lokomotiv was once again on display.

In an interview with Pro Futbal, the Slovakian defender said that he will in all likelihood continue his career in the Bundesliga with Hannover 96.

On the likelihood scale, Ďurica places his departure rather high, saying “I can say that there is a 90% chance I will go to Hannover. The main problem is that Lokomotiv does not want to let me go. However, I’m hoping that the clubs will come to a compromise.”

Ďurica’s departure seems inevitable, especially given Loko president Nikolai Naumov today admitting that his club is willing to part with the defender (as well as, incidentally, Baye Djiby Fall and Stanislav Ivanov) should the offer be sufficient.

Where he lands is still up for debate, leaving Ďurica possibly wanting to reassess his odds with Hannover. Neue Presse have gone on record to claim that Werder Bremen’s defender Peter Niemayer is striking Hannover’s fancy just as well.

Fenerbahçe is looking to unload Kâzım Kâzım

• FK Moskva’s rebuilding begins, at least in the form of rumor.

Fenerbahçe (Turkey) midfielder Kâzım Kâzım (otherwise known as Colin Kazim-Richards) and Spartak Moskva midfielder Denis Boyarintsev have FK Moskva counting their rubles.

According to the Citizens president Igor Dmitriev, both players are under consideration to fill the void in the club’s midfield.

“We have had contact with representatives for Kâzım Kâzım at Fenerbahçe and Denis Boyarintsev at Spartak and have made them aware of our desire to see the players. However, we can not make concrete plans for transfers as of yet—the budget of the club has not yet been approved,” said Dmitriev in an interview with Soviet Sport.

• Red-blacks call upon some sailors.
  

  Amkar hands out an invitation to Maksym Biletskiy

Amkar Perm has had little attention thrown their way so far this off-season. But today word has gotten around that they have invited two FK Chornomorets Odesa players to join their camp. 30-year-old midfielder Maksym Biletskyi and 25-year-old goalkeeper Yevhen Shyryayev could effectively be joining the Perm club in 2010.

Having played with four Premier-Liga clubs in the past, Biletskyi is certainly no stranger to the Russian game. He last appeared in the RPL with FK Rostov in 2006.

Shyryayev is a lesser-known specimen. Having been with the Odesa club since 2000, he has only appeared in 25 matches overall, playing backup to Vitaliy Rudenko.

• Sibir bulking up over the winter

FK Sibir Novosibirsk has officially reported the signing of three players on their website. Midfielder Ivan Nagibin (formerly of FK Chita) agreed to a three-year deal, while Serbian left-back Nikola Valentić (formerly of FK Alania Vladikavkaz) and striker Igor Shevchenko (formerly of FK Kuban Krasnodar) both signed on for two years.

The Siberian side has also announced two upcoming friendlies. On 20 January they will face FK Khazar Lankaran (Azerbaijan) and on 23 January will meet FK Kuban Krasnodar.

It seemed as though it was a done deal, but in a surprising last-minute reversal Oleksandr Aliyev will not be moving to Lokomotiv Moskva and will instead remain a Dinamo Kiev player.

Today, a full two-weeks after the Ukrainian club announced on their own website that [...]]]>

Lokomotiv Moskva's bid for Oleksandr Aliyev has unexpectedly turned sour

It seemed as though it was a done deal, but in a surprising last-minute reversal Oleksandr Aliyev will not be moving to Lokomotiv Moskva and will instead remain a Dinamo Kiev player.

Today, a full two-weeks after the Ukrainian club announced on their own website that the midfielder would be transferred, Aliyev revealed that talks between the clubs have dissolved.

In a lengthy interview posted on Dinamo Kiev’s website Aliyev attempted to clarify the situation with Lokomotiv. “The club’s president Nikolay Naumov and coach Yuri Semin,” said Aliyev, “were anxious to have me in their ranks. But when it came to signing the agreement problems arose, the essence of which, I confess, I initially did not understand.

“Contrary to what many have thought, the question was not over my salary. The salary just was not a problem, we quickly agreed upon it. However, at the last moment, Lokomotiv’s doctors had some questions concerning my health. They had doubts about my right ankle. I had to fly to Italy for a physical, after which it was found that I had no problems with the ankle. I think Lokomotiv were biding their time. Because after my return we then started talking not about a full transfer from Dinamo but about a six-month loan . . .  it seems to me that the Muscovites simply did not have the money to buy out my contract. Of course, I would not agree to a loan.”

After weeks of speculation—and many seemingly futile keystrokes!—this news comes as unexpected, particularly Aliyev’s assumption that Loko did not have the cash to close the deal. While we wait for further news on what has actually transpired in the last 48 hours between the two clubs, Lokomotiv’s off-season transactions will go some way toward proving or disproving the player’s theory.

In retrospect, there were a couple of circumstances along the way that should have raised suspicion about the perceived surety of the Aliyev deal.

First there was the physical that Aliyev references, which was conducted earlier this week in Italy. That physical was unanticipated news given that Aliyev had already appeared in Moskva for a physical in December. Whether it was a result of Lokomotiv actually having serious questions about Aliyev’s ankle can now only be speculated on. However, if they did have real concerns, their loan offer seems more reasonable than Aliyev makes it out to be.

The second red flag was the growing rumors of Marat Izmailov being brought back into the fold at Loko, a move that sounded curious while the Railroaders still had plans of transferring Aliyev given the footballers similar skill-set in the midfield. Now it would appear that Izmailov’s name resurfacing in the last fews days’ news in connection with Loko was a result of the Aliyev negotiations turning sour.

When asked about regrets or animosity toward his former coach and the Lokomotiv organization, Aliyev was diplomatic, “There is no offense taken. . . . I really wanted to play for Yuri Semin at Lokomotiv. Not on loan but as a full-time player. I think that the loan offer was humiliating for both the club and for me personally.  But I don’t resent Yuri Semin. Maybe it’s better that this happened.”

For now Aliyev has a newfound energy to win back a spot on the starting squad in Kiev, returning to the capital city to train with the club.

When asked about a transition in the future—and note, again, that this interview appeared on Dinamo’s site—Aliyev answered, “Now I don’t even want to think about a transition. I am a Dinamo player!”