Suleiman Kerimov: The vanguard of the Russian revolution
The Anzhi Makhachkala revolution continues as Samuel Eto'o is set to join the Russian Premier side. His agent Claudio Vigorelli confirms that the two parties have reached an agreement on personal terms and he expects Inter to follow suit. Anzhi's reported offer of €35m for his services appears to have tickled Massimo Moratti's fancy.
"The offer can be described as interesting, intelligent and reasonable to the value of the player," Moratti told the three-time European champions web site.
Anzhi is bankrolled by Suleiman Kerimov, ranked 118 (personal worth $7.8b) on the Forbes 500 rich list and in recent years have added Roberto Carlos, Diego Tardelli, Jucelei, and most recently Yuri Zhirkov from Chelsea on a four year deal. Kerimov is also reportedly trying to induce Andrei Arshavin to return to Russia and has mentioned Neymar and Paulo Henrique as future signings. Former City midfielder Elano revealed he was approached also but turned down the offer.
Eto'o's deal which would enrich him by €80m spread over four years is a nice nest egg right there. As for Inter €35m would represent serious money to match City's €50m demand for Carlos Tevez who is expected to move out in the January transfer window.
Russia is flooded with new rich people and Moscow has the most billionaires in the world. In a decade, the Russian Premiership will eclipse the biggest European leagues in drawing power and for the next generation of fans it will become the most followed league. That's where the money is and history always follows a mercantile route.
Leave a comment