Zenit St Petersburg forward Artem Dzyuba has spoken to Sport24 and confirmed Everton were showing an interest in him earlier this year.
The Russia international spoke about his links with the Merseyside club and Championat have reported on these comments made to Sport24: “I signed a contract with Jorge Mendes and his company. Back in the winter transfer window, there was a chance for me to leave Zenit. I understand Everton were interested in my services. But I didn’t want to leave.”
Dzyuba added about a possible move: ”Back then, we had a chance to win the Russian Superleague title, and we did so. So, I can say that I did the right thing. In the summer, I also hoped something would happen, but it didn’t. There were just talks, so I am now at Zenit and I am very pleased with that.”
After an impressive World Cup 2018 with Russia, Dzyuba’s reputation took a boost and last summer he was strongly linked with a move to the Premier League, following reports Cardiff City were interested in him.
Despite Everton’s interest in the Russian it seems there wasn’t a concrete effort from them in the summer. The Toffees secured Moise Kean from Juventus, but it’s possible they’ll look for more in their attack in future windows.
There have been claims this week in the English media that Everton scouted Dzyuba during Russia’s clash with Scotland last Friday, which has likely led to his comments.
