In Moscow, Lokomotiv’s sports director Dmitry Ulyanov confirmed that Artem Dzyuba and Igor Smolnikov could join the red-green squad. He stressed that there is a strong interest in players with proven success, noting that their on-field qualities, drive, and leadership could greatly benefit Lokomotiv. The final move, however, hinges on both players being in top physical shape, with a comprehensive medical check scheduled before any contracts are signed. This information comes from Sport Express.
Earlier, sports journalist Ivan Karpov had reported that Dzyuba and Smolnikov had reached verbal agreements with Lokomotiv and would undergo a medical examination on February 8. He added that deals with the players were expected to be completed before the season ends, with each receiving 2.5 million rubles for the terms involved.
Both players are currently free agents. Dzyuba ended his stint with Adana Demirspor, which began last summer, while Smolnikov parted ways with Torpedo at the close of the year. There were also notes about Ilya Kukharchuk, formerly with Khimki, and a separate visit to the club by a priest to offer encouragement amid a difficult run in the Russian Premier League.