Chelsea in chase for rising Russian midfield star while bargain clause is active
The latest Chelsea transfer news suggests the Blues are keeping tabs on Dynamo Moscow midfielder Arsen Zakharyan, according to reports in Russia.
After winning the Champions League last season, optimism is growing in west London that Chelsea can build an era of success. They showed their ambition in the transfer market last summer with a major spending spree. Not all those deals have been cost-effective yet, but they are prepared to repeat the strategy.
Romelu Lukaku is expected in England imminently to complete his return to his first Premier League club. Chelsea are also aiming to complete the signing of Sevilla star Jules Kounde to strengthen their defence for years to come.
But it will also be important for the club to invest in less high-profile stars, less far down their career paths. This summer, they have been deprived of some of their top academy talent, so could look for some younger players with potential.
Among those they may consider is Zakharyan, according to Sport-Express (via Sport Witness). The 18-year-old broke into contention for Dynamo Moscow last season, making 13 appearances and scoring three goals. He was rewarded with a maiden call-up to the Russia senior team, but is still awaiting his international debut.
Even so, it seems his progression is only heading in one direction. Therefore, although already playing at a decent level, he could earn a move to one of Europe’s biggest leagues.
According to Sport-Express, RB Leipzig are interested in taking him to the German Bundesliga. However, a deal seems unlikely at present despite them being willing to activate a release clause.
In the meantime, Chelsea are also one of the main competitors keeping an eye on Zakharyan. He is available to clubs outside Russia for €12m, or €15m next summer.
But Dynamo Moscow feel he would be better off staying with them for a few more years to continue his development. Zakharyan only reached adulthood in May, so it will be important for him not to make too big a step too soon.
However, from Chelsea’s perspective, it could be prudent to sign Zakharyan before he develops further and his price rises in accordance.
Tuchel comments on Abraham future
Several Chelsea youngsters have reflected on their futures this summer and decided to move elsewhere. One who could follow a similar path, although already established in the first team, is Tammy Abraham.
The striker has been the Blues’ top scorer for the last two seasons in a row. However, he has fallen out of favour under Thomas Tuchel. His chances will further decrease following the return of Lukaku.
Abraham now has two options available to him in the transfer window: Arsenal or Roma. He has agreed personal terms with the former, but it is the latter who have an agreement with Chelsea.
Amid the uncertainty over Abraham’s future, Tuchel gave an update ahead of the Super Cup clash with Villarreal.
“He was clearly not happy with the last half a year and he has maybe reason not to be happy,” said Tuchel.
“Maybe it was my fault not to push him and trust him at the same level as other players. I can understand he wants more minutes, so the decision will be how do we plan?
“What are Tammy’s plans? Does he fight his way back into the team from the position he ended last season? Or does he want to change the club to one where he has a better chance of being a starter?
“I can understand and this is the situation. It’s quite a normal situation until the transfer window is closed. Tammy is one of the players where we constantly evaluate the situation and adapt to the needs.
“There is no news now, he is available for the starting XI tomorrow or to come off the bench.”
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