Ismail Aissati nearing Russia switch

Antalyaspor midfielder Ismael Aissati could be on his way to Russia, according to Voetbal International.

Aissati, 24, has managed to kick-start his career in Turkey following several disappointing years at Ajax and has seen his name linked with a number of Russian Premier League clubs.

Voetbal International understands that Spartak Moscow, Lokomotiv Moscow and Terek Grozny are all showing interest to sign the player in the winter transfer window.

Russian clubs have until 27th February to sign new players, and the player’s representative confirms a move to Russia is a realistic possibility.

“We expect that the interest will become concrete this week,” agent Aleksandar Bursac told Voetbal International.

“Ismail himself certainly has nothing against a move to Russia.”

Ismail Aissati joined Ajax from bitter rivals PSV Eindhoven in the summer of 2008, but never quite managed to prove his worth at Amsterdam ArenA.

He returned to the club following a successful loan spell at Vitesse, but was allowed to leave on a free transfer last summer.

Since joining Antalyaspor, the 24-year-old has made 19 Super Lig appearances for the club and scored 3 goals.