Monaco pushes on: Golovin eyed in Russia and Cabral agrees with Al-Ahli

Monaco has not finished reshaping its squad after failed moves for Folarin Balogun and Eduardo Camara, and L’Équipe now points to two clear storylines: one sale already well advanced and another that could turn into a deal soon.

Cabral, deal already in place

The French outlet says Pape Cabral is set to head to Al-Ahli after the two clubs reached an agreement for a transfer worth €10m. The deal also includes a 15% sell-on for Monaco. L’Équipe adds that the move will be made official once the player completes his medical checks and once the PIF (Saudi royal fund) validates it. It also notes that Cabral has received permission to undergo those tests.

Golovin, Russia as the focus

At the same time, L’Équipe reports that Alexandre Golovin could return to his home country “by next week.” The interest mentioned comes from Russia, with the Spartak Moscow and the Zenit St. Petersburg putting themselves forward. The paper says Monaco’s sporting leadership has entered discussions with both clubs, though it stresses nothing is imminent yet.

What it means for Monaco

This matters because Golovin has been central to coach Filipe Luis’ plans, starting every time he’s been available since the season began: 3 matches, 1 goal and 1 assist, according to L’Équipe. Should he leave, the outlet suggests the price could fall between €20m and €25m.

If the transfer goes through, Golovin would become the oldest player in the squad to depart after eight seasons in red and white, having signed for Monaco after the 2018 World Cup. Meanwhile, L’Équipe also reiterates that Balogun is expected to stay until January, with Monaco viewing it as tough to sell a player of that profile this stage of the campaign.