Cheryshev set to join Valencia

Denis Cheryshev appeared to be ready to stay with Real Madrid this summer. The Russian wanted to get relevant minutes and thought about leaving, but Rafa Benítez told him that he was going to be an important player. Cheryshev's situation has changed now as he is ready to join Valencia this week, according to reports from COPE and AS.

Cheryshev would have likely been a useful player on Benítez's rotation, but he ambitions more playing time than Real Madrid can offer. Los Blancos could keep a buyback option on Cheryshev's contract. Valencia would be looking to replace Sofiane Feghouli, who might be joining Fenerbahce soon.

It's a bit strange to see Real Madrid selling Cheryshev to Valencia considering how hostile they were when Los Blancos approached left-back José Luis Gayà last season. Mendes is reportedly involved in the deal even though he is not Cheryshev's agent, and a potential transfer fee has not been reported yet.