What's up everybody? After a few weeks away, I'm finally back on full duty here at FBTIC with the first Rumour Roundup in almost a month. Also, what a week to return, with Anzhi's fire sale about to begin, meaning their players dominate the news this week.
Done Deals:
Spartak Moscow have completed the signing of Paraguayan striker Lucas Barrios from Chinese side Guangzhou Evergrande for a price of €7 million. Barrios only scored 5 goals in 17 games in China, yet made his name as a talented finisher at Borussia Dortmund. The Paraguayan has taken the number 9 at Spartak, formerly belonging to outcast Ari.
In a shock move, Zenit have signed Krasnodar right back Igor Smolnikov for a fee of €6 million. Smolnikov presumably joined to cover until Aleksandr Anyukov returns to the first team after his prolonged injury lay-off, with a view to becoming first choice as Anyukov declines with age.
Looking Likely:
Dynamo appears to be close to the double signing of Anzhi's Igor Denisov and Yuri Zhirkov, via RIA Novosti. Denisov only recently joined Anzhi from Zenit, playing 3 games, yet he is one of the highest earners at the club and will likely be one of the first players to go as Anzhi scale back their side. Meanwhile, Zhirkov has struggled with injuries of late and his sale would be a likely way to recoup wages.
Samuel Eto'o could be allowed to leave Anzhi for free according to Gazzetta, with both Chelsea and Inter Milan believed to be interested. Eto'o is believed to want to reunite with Jose Mourinho, while the Daily Mail claims that he may go to Napoli, despite their recent signing of another striker in Gonzalo Higuain.
50/50:
Spartak is believed to have agreed a €7 million fee with Ajax for Belgian central defender Toby Alderweireld, yet Sport-Express reports that the contract has yet to be agreed, with Alderweireld requesting wages €60,000 per week, which is higher than Spartak are willing to offer. The Belgian turned down a move to English side Norwich earlier this summer after failing to agree on personal terms, but has been linked to Tottenham Hotspur as part of a double deal along with Christian Eriksen.
Willian is believed to be angling for a move away from Anzhi, despite only joining from Shakhtar Donetsk in January. If the Guardian is to be believed, Liverpool are about to make a €35 million bid for the Brazilian, while Tottenham may also renew their interest if Gareth Bale joins Real Madrid as rumoured.
So there you have it. Anzhi's rapid decline has begun and it shall be glorious to watch.
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