Former Lokomotiv coach Yuri Semin weighed in on Arsen Zakharyan’s move to Real Sociedad, framing it as a financially favorable exit for Dynamo Moscow, who sold the midfielder. The assessment comes from a prominent sports daily and serves as a headline example of how a transfer can boost a club’s balance sheet and public image.
“They are well compensated and the deal also enhances the club’s reputation. The player’s future rests with him, the coach, and the squad’s needs. Competition is serious, and the routine of football resumes after the break,” Semin noted, highlighting both the financial and sporting sides of the transfer.
On August 19, Real Sociedad confirmed the signing, with a five-year contract for Zakharyan. The agreement marks a significant step in the 20-year-old midfielder’s career, moving from Dynamo’s system to a top La Liga club.
The Samara native came through Dynamo’s youth ranks from 2017 to 2020, before joining the senior squad where he spent three seasons at the Russian Premier League level. His potential had previously attracted interest from major European clubs, including Chelsea, Ajax, and Feyenoord, underscoring the breadth of scouting that European teams apply to talented young players.
According to Marca, Real Sociedad paid Dynamo 12 million euros in guaranteed bonuses, with additional incentives tied to a future sale. The arrangement also includes a share of any later transfer proceeds, signaling a long-term investment in Zakharyan’s development and market value.
Real Sociedad’s announcement framed the move as a forward-looking step for both club and player, positioning Zakharyan to contribute in Spain while Dynamo benefited from a strategic exit. This transfer adds another chapter to the narrative of Russian talents navigating Western European leagues and underscores the ongoing cross-border flow of emerging players in modern football. [Citation: Sport Express] [Citation: Marca]