Cavric’s sale could open the door for Taiwo’s arrival

Serbian winger Aleksandar Čavrić has a market value of €1.3 million. The second most valuable player in the league could soon be heading to Russian club Rubin Kazan.

Over time, the foreign player became a mainstay of the team and a fan favorite — both among supporters and club officials. Serbian speedster Aleksandar Čavrić arrived at Slovan in the fall of 2016 and remains in the club’s blue-and-white colours to this day. Nicknamed "Caki," he has played a total of 236 competitive matches for Slovan, scoring 61 goals. (...)

However, the 29-year-old attacking player’s time in the club located at Tehelne pole may soon come to an end. Russian club Rubin Kazan is reportedly interested in Čavrić, and the player has already undergone a medical examination in Germany. If he does leave Slovan, it will undoubtedly be a sporting loss — especially after his excellent form last season. On the other hand, the costs of operating Slovakia’s most famous football club continue to rise year after year. According to financial portal Finstat, the club ended the last fiscal year with a deficit of €6.5 million. Therefore, the sale of one of their key players could offer a much-needed boost to the club’s finances. The question remains: for what price would Slovan be willing to part with “Caki”?

"In general, the key parameter is always the player’s quality. Other important factors are age, contract length, and also the legacy the player leaves at the club — his relationship with fans and officials," said sports analyst and legal expert Jozef Tokos in a statement to Economic Daily regarding transfer dynamics. In terms of age, Čavrić is currently in his prime. He is also under contract with Slovan for another season, and his bond with the club is strong. That’s likely why club leadership allowed him to begin transfer talks just before the opening round of Champions League qualification.

"From a footballing perspective, his departure would be a loss. Among the foreign players, he’s contributed an enormous amount to Slovan, which is probably why the club is taking a more sensitive approach to his possible transfer. Moreover, when a player feels he needs a change and wants to leave, it’s always best if a transfer can be negotiated," noted former long-time Slovan player and later coach Ladislav Pecko.

Beyond the player’s desire to take on a new challenge, both clubs must agree to the deal. And the selling club — Slovan, in this case — must also have a suitable replacement lined up. "Aligning all these factors at the same time, especially at the start of the season and just before European matches, can be difficult," Tokos warned.

(...) But who is being lined up to replace Čavrić? Rumors currently point to Nigerian striker Abdulrahman Taiwo, who, ironically, spent last season on loan at Slovan’s fierce rival — Spartak Trnava. (...)