A trap for the “Zenit”: Batrakov’s transfer is at risk due to the European option.

A trap for “Zenit”: Batrakov’s transfer is at risk due to the European option. Sport-Express: Zenit intends to make a proposal to Lokomotiv regarding the transfer of Alexei Batrakov during the summer transfer window. According to sources, the contract of the 20-year-old midfielder with Lokomotiv includes a clause allowing him to be transferred only to European clubs. This option isn’t available for Russian clubs. Batrakov’s preferred option for continuing his career is to move to Europe. This situation puts Zenit in a difficult bargaining position. The lack of any compensation provisions for clubs from the Russian Premier League means that Zenit will have to negotiate directly with Lokomotiv’s management. Lokomotiv clearly understands the value of this asset and isn’t eager to part with a promising midfielder. Batrakov clearly sees Europe as his priority, which reduces his motivation to move to another Russian club. The club needs to decide whether they’re willing to pay a price beyond the market value, or if it’s better to focus on alternative options. The window isn’t going to close, but delaying the deal every day means that Lokomotiv can use the situation to gain maximum advantage.