Russian Premier League side Spartak Moscow have finally secured the services of Ghanaian international Alexander Djiku, bringing an end to their long pursuit of the defender.
Spartak reportedly paid around €2.5 million to acquire the services of the experienced defender from Fenerbahce, putting an end to his two-year spell at the club.
The defender was a key part of the Yellow Canaries team up and made 38 appearances in all competitions last season, but was deemed surplus to requirements at the start of the new campaign, with the team needing fresh energy as they hope to challenge Galatasaray for the Turkish league title.
Spartak Moscow secure Ghanaian defender Alexander Djiku on two-year deal
Despite having won the joint-most league championships in the country’s history (10), alongside Zenit Saint Petersburg, the Gladiators have not won a league title since the 2016/17 season and have identified the 31-year-old as a valuable addition due to his wealth of experience.
Alexander Djiku agreed a two-year deal at the club, with the option of an additional year potentially keeping him in Russia until 2028. He made his debut in last weekend’s 2-2 draw against Dinamo Moscow, helping his new side to a valuable point in the derby.
Transfer fee and contact details
Spartak Moscow will pay a transfer fee of about €2.5 million including add-ons for the experienced Ghana defender.
They first registered their interest in the player in July and were able to beat other suitors including the likes of Olympique Marseille, Villareal and Faith Karagumruk to his signature.
Salary breakdown
Per Capology, Alexander Djiku will earn €40,962 gross salary per week, totaling to about €2.13 million annually, after penning an initial two-year deal at the Russian club.
The defender is a valuable asset, with Spartak Moscow’s total investments set to reach about €9 million, should the option of an extra year in his contract be triggered.
From Istanbul to Moscow
Alexander Djiku arrives at Spartak Moscow with a vast wealth of experience, following previous stints with clubs in the French league and the Turkish league.
The Ghanaian defender has great strength and physicality and also excels at the attacking end, stepping up with crucial goals for his side.
