Monaco’s Aleksandr Golovin nearing Russia return

Monaco's playmaker Aleksandr Golovin (30) is reportedly nearing a return to Russia, according to Foot Mercato. The AS Monaco forward could potentially join Zenit St. Petersburg. Golovin has been with Monaco since 2018, making him the most long-serving player in Filipe Luís' squad. However, he might be set to depart the French club, with the transfer window still open in Russia.

Monaco's decision to sell players is driven by both reducing their wage bill and securing additional funds. Folarin Balogun's move to Everton was supposed to achieve this, but it ultimately failed at the last minute. Despite the closure of the transfer window in France, there may still be movement at Stade Louis II. Golovin has been in talks with Zenit St. Petersburg for several weeks and could make a permanent exit from Monaco.

Additionally, Pape Cabral could join Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli in a €10m deal, according to L'Équipe. These departures would allow Monaco to register a 'joker' signing, potentially in the form of Hicham Boudaoui from local rivals OGC Nice, as per Foot Mercato.