Arsen Zakharyan, the midfielder for the Russian national team and Dynamo Moscow, addressed rumors linking him with a move to Turkish club Galatasaray. He laughed off the most outrageous chatter, saying that the news about Galatasaray was wildly off the mark. He described how everything felt unsettled, with talk circulating that a contract had already been finalized. He even admitted reacting in the moment, thinking he might be headed to Galatasaray, while others involved believed decisions would be made without him. In the end, the player stated that an offer had been presented, but he declined, ending the matter there. The remarks appeared in the publication Sports Express.
Earlier in the season, there had been chatter about a possible transfer to Galatasaray during the winter window. Various versions circulated about why such a move did not materialize, with some accounts pointing to obstacles that blocked the deal before it could reach completion. The topic sparked widespread discussion among fans and pundits alike, as people weighed the likelihood of a high-profile shift from Russia to Turkey.
Backstory from last year included reports that Chelsea had submitted a bid around £12.6 million for the then 19-year-old midfielder. That specific attempt did not proceed amid broader restrictions affecting Russian football at the time. Additional reports suggested that Chelsea remained interested in Zakharyan, but transfer talks between the two clubs were put on hold during the autumn period, leaving the door slightly ajar but no final outcome achieved.
Throughout the current season, Zakharyan has made 19 appearances for Dynamo Moscow, contributing three goals and five assists. His ongoing performances continue to attract attention from clubs across Europe, even as his immediate focus remains with his club and the national team. Analysts have noted how his development has progressed in both domestic competitions and European fixtures, where scouts observe how he adapts to different tactical demands and styles of play.
Some observers have linked Zakharyan’s trajectory at Dynamo with coaching changes and the strategic direction of the club. While one former assistant mentioned that changes in leadership could influence the path of several players, others emphasized that a young player’s growth depends on game time, coaching clarity, and the right environment for development. The discussion around his future continues to unfold, with French, English, and Turkish clubs among those periodically monitoring his progress. Yet for now, Zakharyan appears focused on performing at Dynamo and continuing to build his résumé on the international stage, leaving speculation to fans and commentators for the moment.