Pavel Andreev, the agent of Arsen Zakharyan, has told Sport24 that the Dynamo Moscow star needs to leave Russia, but Marcel Brands has played down Everton plotting a transfer.
Zakharyan enjoyed his senior breakthrough at the VTB Arena last season and is setting the Premier Liga alight this term. He also made his senior Russia debut in September, as the 18-year-old quickly establishes a presence in the national side under boss Valeriy Karpin.
The Samara-native has provided six assists and three goals in 14 league outings so far this term. He also created one in Musora’s 3-0 win at Orenburg in the Russian Cup last month.
Several of Europe’s big hitters are monitoring Zakharyan’s performances with a view to a potential transfer. TEAMtalk cite Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan among the teenager’s admirers.
Everton, too, like Zakharyan, and TuttoMercatoWEB even claimed this week that the Blues held productive talks, with Dynamo Moscow chasing a fee in excess of €10m (£8.5m).
But Zakharyan’s agent, Andreev, states Everton have not made any contact over a transfer for the Dynamo Moscow star. Although he would urge him to leave Musora if possible.
“I have no such information. Maybe Dynamo was approached, but not us,” Andreev said. “Anything is possible, but clubs from Europe did not contact me directly.
“Is Arsen ready to leave? He needs to go, he needs to play in Europe, that’s for sure.
“But this is his decision – whatever he takes, it will be so. Any footballer needs to go abroad if there is an offer.”
Brands refutes claims Everton negotiating Zakharyan transfer with Dynamo Moscow
Everton’s Director of Football Brands has also spoken with Sport24 on Everton’s interest in Zakharyan and refuted claims he was in discussions with Dynamo Moscow over a transfer.
“This is nonsense,” the Dutchman stated.
Brands may just be playing down the speculation of Everton eying a transfer for Zakharyan, but his unequivocal reply does raise doubt over the Blues signing the Dynamo Moscow star.
The Toffees could yet target the Russian maestro, however, as he continues to impress in the Premier Liga. Offering boss Sandro Schwarz an option on the left, right and through the centre of his midfield. Aspects that will appeal to the Blues if he keeps up his creative run.
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