CSKA Moscow Reach Agreement to Sign Matija Popović from Napoli

CSKA Moscow have reached a surprise agreement to sign Matija Popović from Napoli after his return to Partizan Belgrade collapsed. In fact, Popović has recently left Napoli and was initially set to rejoin Partizan before the deal fell through.

WHAT HAPPENED?

CSKA Moscow have reacted swiftly to sign Popović as the young forward’s move from Napoli to Partizan collapsed. The Serbian forward moved to Napoli last year but endured a tough spell in Italy and failed to make a single appearance in Serie A.

He has now secured a move to Russia with CSKA securing his signature in a deal that will see Napoli retain 10% of his next sale. A move to Partizan fell apart at the last minute with the player returning to Russia from Serbia on Friday.

Popović has had a successful trial period in Moscow, netting for CSKA in a 4-0 friendly win over Kairat earlier this month. Prior to that, he netted 54 times in 74 youth appearances, return that prompted the Serie A champions to move for him in the first place.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

CSKA Moscow are looking to improve their attacking options after a disappointing league start. CSKA are currently sixth in the table, eight points behind league leaders FC Aktobe and seven behind top side FC Astana.

They have been out of the title race for some time now and need to string together a good run of form to ensure they have European competition next season.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CSKA & POPOVIĆ?

Popović’s signing comes as a major boost to CSKA’s attacking options. The forward has the ability to play in midfield, as a second striker and on either flank so is likely to provide manager Andrei Talalaev with numerous options. His creativity, dribbling ability and finishing prowess could provide a tonic for CSKA in the second half of the season.

Napoli remain interested in Popović’s development, too, and will get a small amount of financial reward should the forward move on to pastures new. CSKA, however, will hope the 20-year-old blossoms in Russia.