Russian World Cup star Aleksandr Golovin has signed for Ligue 1 side Monaco. CSKA Moscow will receive a fee of around 30 million euro from Monaco in return for the player. The attacker was one of the standout performers of the 2018 World Cup.

Golovin registered one goal and two assists to aid his country’s surprise run to the quarter-finals, which saw them defeat early favourites Spain along the way. The player’s technical ability, as well as his dribbling and pace, made him stand out during the recent World Cup.

Italian giants Juventus and Premier League side Arsenal were also reportedly interested in the player before Monaco secured the deal. English Premier League side Chelsea were heavily linked with the Russian and it is reported that they narrowly missed out on the player. This will come as a blow to new Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri.

Monaco sign Aleksandr Golovin

Golovin Brings Versatility

Golovin is a very versatile player. The Russian can play in central midfield, on either wing or as a striker. Golovin’s technical ability will suit Monaco’s expansive style of play, however, one black mark against the Russian will be his productivity.

Despite playing in a relatively weak team last season, Golovin could only produce five goals and three assists. These numbers will need to improve following the step up to the Premier League. At only 22 years of age and already having both World Cup and Champions League experience under his belt, the Russian is in a good position in order to rise to the challenges put to him in his new surroundings.

Big Shoes to Fill?

The player may be used to replace Thomas Lemar, who has recently completed his move to Spanish side Atletico Madrid. The French World Cup winners departure will leave a big gap in Monaco side as a result, Golovin will need to step up quickly as Monaco will look to him to be one of the key sources of creativity and flair.

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