Arsen Zakharyan is considering changing his citizenship from Russian to Armenian as Chelsea maintain their interest in the youngster, according to reports.
The 19-year-old was heavily linked with a move to the Blues during the summer transfer window and a transfer was thought to be close.
However, there were complications over the deal as a result of the sanctions imposed on Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.
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His current side Dynamo Moscow released a statement on the deal after the transfer deadline passed, which said: "On August 25, FC Dynamo received an offer from the English football club Chelsea regarding the transfer of midfielder Arsen Zakharyan.
“The interest of one of the strongest clubs in the world to the graduate of our club academy is a high assessment of the quality of training of young football players of Dynamo and Arsene's playing progress.
"For several days, there were substantive negotiations between Dynamo and Chelsea, in which our club took a constructive position. However, due to a number of technical reasons beyond our control, it is not possible to transfer the player to this summer transfer window.
“Nevertheless, our club remains open to proposals that will suit Dynamo and the player.
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"At the moment, the parties have decided that Arsene will continue to play for Dynamo. This does not rule out a move for Chelsea in the future and they may have to go for him in the winter window instead.
“Ultimately, the Blues are going to have to find another way to get a midfielder to sign for the club as soon as possible."
Despite him being unable to seal a move to Chelsea in the summer, there is still a chance he could complete a transfer in January.
According to Hrach Khachatryan, Zakharyan is considering a change of citizenship.
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The Russian is thinking of making a request for Armenian citizenship, and FIFA could allow him to represent them at international level rather than the former.
He has already hinted at a future move to the Premier League at Chelsea, and when asked about whether he would change citizenship or not to allow a transfer, he said: “It's just talk. I can't comment on it.
“I didn't intend to do anything. I was going to play there, and nothing more."
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Zakharyan also commented on a move to Stamford Bridge: "This is a question for the club.
“We will coordinate everything with the club. I can't comment on this.”
“Chelsea should make the transfer, not me,” he added.
“I hope everything will be fine. Perhaps in winter."
Topics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours
Robert Calcutt