Arsen Zakharyan confirmed Chelsea’s interest in the summer, insisting he was open to joining the Premier League side.
Under new owner Todd Boehly, Chelsea have signed a few expensive players and many young, up-and-coming stars. The project seems to focus on short-term results, although there’s an emphasis placed on bringing players to develop them into future stars.
Omari Hutchison, Carney Chukwuemeka and Wesley Fofana were a few of the signings that highlighted the project. Chelsea may have missed out on a few, including 19-year-old Russian attacking midfielder Arsen Zakharyan.
The Dinamo Moscow star was a target in the summer, but FIFA rules restricting transfers of Russian players prevented a move. The 19-year-old Russian international was reportedly keen on a move, as his comments on 90 Min reveal.
Zakharyan said, “My agents were informed about Chelsea’s interest.
“I immediately said, ‘Yes, I want to go and see what happens’. I didn’t rule out a loan option. At least I would try myself. Maybe I could play right away.”
Chelsea are reportedly keen on reviving a move in January. With the player seemingly interested in the summer, maybe he will be open towards joining them in the winter. The FIFA restrictions continue to be problematic, something the player hopes to resolve soon.
Zakharyan has a release clause of a reported €12.5 million, which is understandably not an issue for Chelsea. Even personal terms are in place. The 19-year-old even applied for Armenian citizenship, although the FA have not responded to the request yet.
The request may be on hold, considering Zakharyan has already featured for the Russian national side four times. FIFA rules could further prevent him from representing Armenia if granted citizenship. The Footballing body could amend the representation rules because of the ongoing problems with Russia.
There are other players on Chelsea’s radar if the move fails. Zakharyan, as it is, could be a developmental player, fit enough for future squads. He has already scored three goals and laid six assists for teammates in 18 appearances across all competitions. If those performances continue, more clubs could be vying for his signature.
