Valencia defender rejects Russian advances

French centre back Adil Rami has rejected the approaches of Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala. According to ESPN Soccernet, the Valencia defender has turned down a summer move to the Dagestan based club, opening up the possibility of a move to the Premier League. Despite still having 2 years of his current contract to run, Rami has suggested that his days at the Mestella are numbered. 

Having spent five seasons in his native country at Lille, the Corsican has developed into one of Europe’s most steady and consistent centre backs whilst at Valencia. At 6’3, the central defender is known for playing a commanding role for club and country. Since making his international debut in August 2010 under Laurent Blanc, Rami has been capped 25 times by France, appearing against England in Donetsk last summer. As his stock continues to rise, it is no surprise that both Arsenal and Liverpool are said to have shown an interest in securing his services.

Anzhi and their billionaire owner Suleyman Kerimov are likely to be slightly perplexed at this apparent rejection from Rami. Many promising talents across Europe have been tempted by the vast financial rewards on offer at the Dynamo Stadium, most notably Cameroonian striker Samuel Eto’o who is said to be earning a world record salary of €20.5 million annually.

From a personal point of view it is refreshing to see an established international turn down the roubles in favour of a more competitive and self fulfilling footballing environment.

Michael Dobson

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