Transfer Tracker

Report: Russia, Zenit defender Igor Smolnikov generating interest from MLS clubs

Igor Smolnikov - Russia - national team

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS:Report


After nearly 200 career appearances with UEFA Champions League regular Zenit St. Petersburg, Russia national team right back Igor Smolnikov is generating interest from several unnamed MLS clubs.


A recent Eurosport.ru story outlines that Smolnikov is nearing the end of his contract, and is pursuing options domestically and across MLS. MLS league recently adjusted its transfer windows, shifting the Secondary Transfer Window to Aug. 12 ā€“ Thurs., Oct. 29. But with Smolnikov potentially available on a free move, only a contract and personal terms would be required.

Smolnikov, who turns 32 on Aug. 8, has helped Zenit win the last two Russian Premier League titles. Heā€™s also featured 29 times for his countryā€™s national team, including at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Euros.


An attack-minded defender, Smolnikov has 10 goals and 21 assists across 197 appearances for Zenit. His professional career began back in 2006 for Torpedo Moscow, and he's also featured for FK Krasnodar, plus other clubs while on loan.