During the winter transfer window Lokomotiv Moscow hinted repeatedly that Steven Caulker was set to sign for them from QPR. Russia’s transfer window stretched on until Ferbruary 28th, but it was at the end of January that Lokomotiv were pushing it the most.
Repeated hints via the club’s social media accounts made it clear they believed Caulker was on the verge of leaving QPR and moving to Russian football.
The move didn’t happen and in the end the whole thing ended up looking like something of a farce.
Lokomotiv Moscow’s president Ilya Gerkus has been pressed on the situation and was asked why the transfer failed. Quoted by Russia’s Sport Express, Gerkus explained: The bottom line is: at the last moment he was unable to decide. He took the time to think, then more time… In principle, we understood that caulker was possible. It was the first time he would play abroad. We know the English – home nation, not everyone is ready for change.”
Gerkus was also quizzed on what kind of questions the QPR defender asked him about a Russia move: “Nothing special. Common questions about the country, about which he knows little or judges by the British press. Is it safe to sign with us? What kindergartens? How are foreigners treated? From a football point of view, it is difficult to understand the failure of Caulker. He’s still not playing, and the club wanted to get rid of him.”
Caulker hasn’t played for QPR since October, the 25 year old has a contract with the club until June 2018. Given QPR’s eagerness to sell the player, and that he’s not playing, a move in the summer would make the most sense.
