Fyodor Smolov could have been signed on the cheap this month, but Premier League duo Everton and Crystal Palace missed out.
It is not often you can sign a prolific goal-scorer for as little as £12 million these days.
Smolov, arguably the best Russian footballer around right now, has scored an impressive 59 goals in 90 games since arriving at Krasnodar in the summer of 2015 and the Mail reported that he was wanted by both West Ham and Swansea before the window slammed shut.
But they are not the only Premier League sides who have been keeping an eye on the 27-year-old. Smolov’s agent, Sandor Varga, has told Sport Express that both Everton and Crystal Palace had enquired about the striker prior to deadline day.
Yet it appears that no bids were forthcoming from Goodison Park or Selhurst Park. And time will tell whether that proves to be a mistake.
Smolov has only 18 months remaining on his contract so perhaps Everton and Palace, who spent the winter window scouring the continent for new strikers, are hoping to sign him for cheaper than £12 million in the summer.
The World Cup, however, could pose a problem. Smolov is Russia’s captain and will be carrying the nation’s hopes on his shoulders as they aim to impress at their very own ‘festival of football’ in a few months.
Smolov was clearly Russia’s best player during the recent Confederations Cup and, if he makes the same impression in front of the watching world, expect bigger teams than Everton and Palace to express and interest.
Smolov’s price-tag could rise considerably too if he fires Russia deep into the tournament.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
