Leonid Slutsky, the head coach of Shanghai Shenhua, has publicly weighed the idea of inviting Artem Dzyuba to join the squad. His remarks, shared with Match TV, reflect a cautious approach to speculation while keeping doors open for potential opportunities. Slutsky emphasized that any move would be contingent on multiple factors, including tactical fit and club needs, rather than pressing deadlines or rumors. He echoed a steady stance, indicating that nothing has fundamentally changed in the situation and reiterating a careful assessment of the players available to the team. (Citation: Match TV)
Asked repeatedly whether Artem Dzyuba is in China, Slutsky responded with a concise line that has become familiar: there have been no new developments. The coach did not dismiss the possibility outright, but he underscored the importance of a measured decision process and the realities of the league’s transfer framework. (Citation: Match TV)
When evaluating the May 2024 chatter about a potential Dzyuba move to a Chinese club, Slutsky pointed to the league’s foreign-player limit as a significant hurdle. In Shenhua or any Chinese side, only five foreign players can be registered, a constraint that makes a high-profile acquisition complex and highly strategic. The implication was clear: a transfer would require more than ambition; it would demand alignment with long-term club plans and regulatory compliance. (Citation: Department briefings)
Mid August brought further developments as rumors connected Dzyuba with Krylia Sovetov Samara. The information came from commentator Konstantin Genich, though no official contract had been announced. Separately, reports circulated that Alexander Kokorin, who had been with the Cyprus club Aris, had influenced conversations surrounding Dzyuba. Despite the chatter, concrete confirmation remained elusive, and the situation stayed fluid. (Citation: Sports media)
At this stage Dzyuba is without a club after parting ways with Lokomotiv Moscow at the end of the previous season. Across the 2023/24 campaign, the 35-year-old forward appeared in 26 matches across all competitions, tallying four goals and delivering four assists. Lokomotiv finished the season in fourth place in the Russian Premier League with 53 points, a respectable performance that reflects a competitive environment. (Citation: League records)
August 22 marked Dzyuba’s 36th birthday, a milestone that has often sparked reflection on a veteran striker’s next steps. In past interviews, Dzyuba has even discussed ambitions beyond traditional football roles, including interests in martial arts as part of his broader athletic repertoire. (Citation: Player interviews)