Russian champions set for firesale of stars following Champions League departure.
Zenit St Petersburg could be set for a major January clear out after crashing out at the group stage of the Champions League this week, with the likes of Hulk, Axel Witsel, Ezequiel Garay and Javi Garcia all placed on the chopping block, according to the Daily Express.
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Reports in Russia suggest that Zenit’s owners have run out of patience with a group of highly-paid stars they brought in specifically to improve the club’s chances in Europe’s top competition.
And though the club have not crashed out of Europe entirely, the club could look to sell the big name quartet in the new year in order to remodel the squad.
But where will they go? A number of Premier League sides have registered an interest in all four at one point or another, and below is where we think they could move to if made available.
Ezequiel Garay
Where could he go: Manchester United
The Argentine ace only made the move to Russia over the summer, but could find himself on the way out sooner than he expected. Manchester United have been heavily linked with the former Real man for nearly 18 months now, and with their defensive crisis refusing to relent then Louis Van Gaal could be tempted to break the chequebook out again.
Javi Garcia
Where could he go: Arsenal
The former Man City man could be just what the doctor ordered at the Emirates. The Spanish international is a defensive midfielder capable of both breaking up play and distributing the ball to aid the side’s creative players. However, he is another that only joined Zenit over the summer so Wenger may be forced to add a few more zeros to the end of the transfer fee.
Axel Witsel
Where could he go: Liverpool
The Reds have been thrust into crisis this season, and despite spending heavily to reinforce their ranks over the summer their new faces have so far failed to live up to expectations. However, Witsel has often been tipped for a higher level than he’s currently playing at in Russia, and would have no problem adding some significant bulk and skill to the Reds midfield.
Hulk
Where could he go: Anywhere
Having already denied that he would be interested in a move to Chelsea last month, the Brazilian striker will no doubt have a number of offers from any of Europe’s top five leagues. Manchester United could be keen as Falcao continues to struggle, while PSG could make a move if they manage to offload Lavezzi and Cavani in the new year. Hulk’s future could be the next long running transfer saga.
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