Zenit is reportedly competing with Aston Villa for Galatasaray midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo.
Villa is negotiating to sign Zaniolo after Emi Buendia’s serious injury. Villa has loaned the Italy international for €3m (£2m), according to Turkish outlet Sports Digitale.
It also believes Villa’s deal, including Zaniolo’s option, exceeds €30m (£26m). Galatasaray may approve a sale that matches his €35m (£30m) release clause.
Zenit, who is looking to replace Malcom, who joined Saudi powerhouse Al Hilal, may also compete with Villa for Zaniolo. Sport Italia will pay the 24-year-old €9m annually.
Villa may increase its offer. The Italy international joined Galatasaray from Roma for €16.5m (£14m) last summer and played 12 games.
Villa’s new football operations chief Monchi signed Zaniolo for Roma in 2018.
