Chelsea are close to signing Russia’s World Cup hero, Aleksandr Golovin after reportedly agreeing on terms of the deal with club CSKA Moscow.
Chelsea are set to continue their recruitment operations with further strengthening their squad with the signing of Russia’s World Cup star Aleksandr Golovin from CSKA Moscow in the coming days. The Sun reports that the Stamford Bridge outfit have agreed to terms with his club CSKA Moscow and could finalise the move for Golovin soon.
Chelsea have been unusually slow in the current transfer market, but that was understandable due to their managerial conundrum. Chelsea have kickstarted their transfer activity as soon as new manager Maurizio Sarri was appointed in place of Antonio Conte, signing Napoli star Jorginho as their first of the summer.
To add to the Italian’s signing, Aleksandr Golovin seems to be the next in line for Chelsea, and this transfer has been touted to happen for some time now. Chelsea, however, had to face a fierce battle before agreeing to terms, as many of Europe’s top clubs were interested in the Russian.
It is believed that Chelsea took the front seat in this transfer after Golovin rejected the chance to join Monaco, who had come with a late bid for the midfielder. Juventus too were credited with an interest, but their offer of €21 million was straight away rejected by CSKA Moscow.
Although the Sun report, does not mention a fee, it is believed to be to the tune of €30 million, and it was down to the player to choose between Monaco and Chelsea in the end, with the Blues getting the nod from Golovin. With the deal expected to be wrapped up in the coming days, Sarri is scheduled to have Golovin in training in the coming weeks.
Golovin has never played for any other club apart from CSKA Moscow in his native Russia, making 113 appearances for the side till date. The 22-year old, also regarded as Russia’s best player at the World Cup, helping his team reach the quarterfinals, beating Spain in the process.
Golovin’s transfer would boost the club’s ranks in midfield and attack, as the player is quite versatile. He also has a knack for an occasional goal, highlighted by his seven goals last term in the Russian league where he made 38 appearances.
The deal is expected to be wrapped up soon as Chelsea will then focus on other targets to strengthen their squad. The likes of Daniele Rugani and Gonzalo Higuain are reported targets. On the other hand, there could be a few departures, as Chelsea look to rebuild their side after finishing fifth in the league last season, missing out on the Champions League.