da spicy bet： Both sides of Merseyside are eyeing the signature of FC Rostov striker Sardar Azmoun but the striker isn’t looking for a transfer, his agent has stated.
What’s the word?
da prosport bet： 21-year-old FC Rostov striker Sardar Azmoun, once heralded as the ‘Iranian Messi’, was involved in a controversial transfer in the summer as he signed for Rostov permanently from Rubin Kazan after a successful loan spell, though his former employers claimed that clause didn’t exist.
That case continues to be assessed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport but the player has focused on his antics on the field, netting in the Champions League against Atletico Madrid. That form has not gone unnoticed, with The Guardian crediting Liverpool, Everton and Stoke City with interest.
With Everton owned by Iranian Farhad Moshiri, the Toffees chief would certainly jump at the chance to sign a national who has netted 16 goals in 22 matches for Iran. However, Azmoun’s agent has played down the chances of a move.
What’s been said?
Speaking to rsport.ru, Azmoun’s agent Mehdi Hagitali that he’s aware of the reported links but has so far received no formal approaches.
“I read about Liverpool’s interest in Sardar, but I can say that at present there have been no formal proposals at all—from either foreign or Russian clubs,”
“Azmoun is not looking to leave the club in a hurry. Now his main goal is to become the best striker the Russian Premier League.”
Should he move?
Crucially, FC Rostov have European football- which neither Liverpool or Everton can offer. With just one point from their four group stage matches though, it’s clear the Russian minnows will drop out of the Champions League in the next few weeks.
However, neither Everton or Liverpool can offer the youngster regular first-team football. Everton, of course, have Romelu Lukaku leading the line and he’s unlikely to be dethroned, although the Toffees depth is much weaker.
For Liverpool, it would make no sense to sign the young striker when they already have Roberto Firmino, Daniel Sturridge and Divock Origi at the club. For that reason, Azmoun is better of staying put for the time being and continuing to prove himself.