Published: 24 August, 2009, 20:01
Edited: 24 August, 2009, 20:01
As Everton denied the rumors about their interest in Russian midfielder Vladimir Bystrov, the British press went on to match another Russian international, Diniar Bilyaletdinov, with the Premier League side.
The Guardian and The Mirror claim the Liverpool side are ready to plunk down £10 million for the Lokomotiv Moscow captain.
The 24-year-old, who has 24 caps for the Russian national squad, was one of the key elements in the Guus Hiddink side during Euro 2008. Since then he has failed to make it into the starting lineup. However, thanks to his perfect condition this summer, Hiddink again recruited the talented midfielder for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Liechtenstein and Wales.
Everton finished 5th last year. This year the team had a dreadful start in the English Premier League season, getting thrashed by Arsenal 6-1 at home and losing to newly promoted Burnley on the road. The Toffees’ coach, David Moyes, has been recently seeking a boost in Russia. Spartak Moscow’s Vladimir Bystrov was rumored to be linked with the move to Everton, however, both teams’ management later denied the information.
Earlier Everton expressed interest in signing a few footballers playing in Russia, but failed to sign Pavel Pogrebnyak from Zenit or Vagner Love from CSKA Moscow.