Which transfers have already taken place in the Russian Premier League in winter 2025?

The transfer window of the Russian Premier League in winter 2025 became significant for Russian football. The clubs’ activity was not limited to usual reinforcements but included strategic moves aimed at long-term development. The main focus was on attracting young players with international experience and stars capable of influencing the outcome of crucial matches. The transfers in the RPL in 2025 not only changed the balance of power but also demonstrated the readiness of Russian teams for new challenges.

Who Joined Spartak in Winter 2025

Spartak became one of the leaders of the RPL transfer window in winter 2025. The team demonstrated a thoughtful strategy aimed at strengthening key positions. The emphasis was placed on experienced international players and promising Russian footballers. The transfers in the RPL in 2025 brought quality reinforcements to the club both in attack and defense, allowing the team to remain among the favorites of the current season.

Main newcomers:

1. Sergio Romero (29 years old, central defender, former player of Sevilla). An athlete with vast experience in leading European leagues. The defender is known for his tactical acumen, high level of performance in one-on-one situations, and leadership qualities. Last season, Romero played 34 matches in La Liga, scoring 2 goals and providing 3 assists. His transfer cost Spartak 8 million euros, emphasizing the club’s serious ambitions.
2. Alexander Yakovlev (22 years old, midfielder, Fakel). A young Russian player who became one of the most interesting finds in the market. In the 2024 season, Yakovlev played 30 matches, scored 6 goals, and made 7 assists. The cost of his transfer was 3 million euros. The strengthening of RPL squads, including Yakovlev’s transfer, allowed Spartak to acquire a young and creative footballer capable of changing the game in midfield.

Role of Newcomers in the Squad

Sergio Romero became a key reinforcement in the central defense area. His arrival helped to address the weaknesses in defense that hindered the team from effectively competing with the strongest RPL teams. Alexander Yakovlev added dynamism and creativity to the midfield. The player became indispensable in building attacks, which is particularly important in matches against opponents who press actively.

Zenit’s Most Notable Transfers in Winter 2025

Zenit proved to be one of the most ambitious clubs in Russia by making several high-profile acquisitions. The RPL transfer window in winter 2025 will be remembered for the transfer of a global football star to the blue-and-white team.

Main RPL Transfer of 2025—Diego Mendes

Diego Mendes (27 years old, forward, Atletico Madrid) became the most expensive purchase for the club. They paid 15 million euros for the player, setting a record for the RPL this winter. In the 2024 season, Mendes played 30 matches, scored 18 goals, and provided 5 assists. The player is known for his high speed, ability to find open spaces in the penalty area, and accuracy in shooting.

Changes in Zenit’s Squad

Mendes’s arrival strengthened the club’s attacking line, making it one of the most powerful in the league. Another important acquisition was Artem Morozov, a goalkeeper from Dynamo. The transfer cost 2 million euros. Morozov is known for his quick reactions and reliable goalkeeping.

CSKA’s Acquisition: Focus on Youth

CSKA continues to follow a development strategy by attracting young players. In the winter transfer window, the club focused on finding talents capable of strengthening key positions.

Klimov’s Move to CSKA

Maxim Klimov (20 years old, midfielder, Krasnodar) is one of the most promising Russian footballers. His transfer was a key event for CSKA. The deal was worth 5 million euros. Klimov scored 4 goals and made 9 assists in the 2024 season, confirming his high level of play.

Impact on the Squad and Prospects

The RPL transfers in 2025 strengthened CSKA’s positions in the center of the field and in attack. Maxim Klimov immediately became a key attacking player. His ability to find open spaces and provide accurate passes increased the team’s efficiency in challenging matches. CSKA also improved the interaction between the lines, which is especially important in matches against Zenit and Spartak. The team’s newcomers brought diversity to tactical schemes, allowing the coach to adapt the style flexibly to each opponent.

Lokomotiv’s Transfer Campaign Results

Lokomotiv traditionally shows moderate activity in the transfer market, focusing on targeted acquisitions. The club emphasized strengthening the midfield and defense.

Key newcomers:

1. Ivan Petrov (25 years old, midfielder, Krasnodar). Ivan Petrov’s transfer was one of the main events in the RPL 2025 transfer market. The midfielder performed excellently in the previous season, playing 28 matches and scoring 5 goals with 8 assists. The contract’s value was 4 million euros.
2. Georgy Smirnov (23 years old, central defender). The player is known for his reliable defensive play and ability to attack from deep. At Lokomotiv, he is tasked with strengthening the central defensive line, which suffered from instability in the previous season.

How Dynamo Changed Its Squad in Winter 2025

Dynamo continues its policy of rejuvenating the team by focusing on young Russian players. The RPL transfers in 2025 were a time for the club to search for new solutions in attack and defense.

Acquisitions:

1. Alexander Kovalyov (21 years old, forward). The signing cost 3.5 million euros. In the previous season, the player scored 10 goals and made 6 assists while playing for an FNL club.
2. Denis Pavlov (24 years old, right-back). The player from Rostov signed a contract for 2 million euros. His ability to join attacks and provide accurate passes make him an important addition to the team’s tactical setups.

Conclusion

The RPL transfers in winter 2025 were a significant milestone in the development of Russian football. The transfers attracted the attention of not only domestic but also international fans, thanks to major deals and the arrival of star players.

Spartak, Zenit, and CSKA demonstrated a strategic approach, focusing on strengthening the squad in key areas. Young talents like Alexander Yakovlev and Maxim Klimov were given the opportunity to showcase themselves at the highest level, emphasizing the long-term orientation towards the development of national football. The new season promises to be intense with a battle for the title, exciting games, and new records.