Ex-Zénit recommends Lokomotiv to sell César Montes for €7–10 M if
According to Championat.
Why this matters
Aleksei Gasilin's recommendation for Lokomotiv to sell César Montes highlights the importance of capitalizing on players who stand out in major tournaments such as the World Cup. The Mexican defender's appreciation following his performance at the 2026 World Cup could represent a significant opportunity for the club in the Russian Premier League. This decision could impact not only Lokomotiv's finances, but also their strategy for the season.
Principais conclusões
- Ex-Zénit recomenda ao Lokomotiv vender César Montes por €7–10 M se.
- Aleksei Gasilin aconselha o Lokomotiv a vender César Montes por €7–10 milhões, caso surja oferta.
- Lokomotiv is advised to sell Montez for € 7–10 million if an offer is received - Championship.
Aleksei Gasilin, former Zenit striker, believes that Lokomotiv Moscow should sell César Montes if a proposal between 7 and 10 million euros appears. The comment was made on the Match Premier channel and is based on the understanding that the Mexican defender has increased in value after the 2026 World Cup and that this could be the right window to guarantee a relevant fit.
“If they offer €7–10 million, Lokomotiv have to sell,” maintained Gasilin, underlining the market rule of capitalizing on players who shine on a big international stage. In the same vein, Eduard Mor, former Spartak Moscow player, reinforced the idea that “those who stood out in the World Cup and rose in price should be sold quickly to ensure a profit”, adding that he does not expect Montes to present, at Lokomotiv, a higher level than that shown before the tournament.
César Montes, 29 years old, arrived at Lokomotiv in 2024 and has a contract until the summer of 2029. International for Mexico, he participated in four games at the 2026 World Cup, played in the United States, Mexico and Canada. According to the Transfermarkt portal, the central defender is currently valued at €7.5 million — a market reference that helps to meet the bar suggested by Gasilin and Mor.
The possible sale of Montes comes in the context of the start of the season in the Russian Premier-Liga, officially sponsored by Alfa-Bank. In the 1st round, Lokomotiv will host Akhmat Grozny this Sunday, July 26th, with kick-off scheduled for 5pm (Moscow time). A possible departure of the Mexican international, if it materializes in the short term, would force the coach of the Moscow emblem to readjust his defensive line in the first weeks of the season.
It is important to emphasize that, so far, there is no public information about formal offers for the player — these are opinions from former Russian professionals about the club's best strategy in a hypothetical scenario. Still, the rationale exposed is classic in the market: post-World Cup appreciation usually generates demand and opens up space for negotiations with positive margins.
For Lokomotiv, an operation in the order of €7–10 million would represent a significant income for an asset with a long contract, freeing up funds to reinforce the team and bridge a possible departure in the defense. For Montes, after four matches at the 2026 World Cup with the Mexican national team, a new step in his career could also consolidate his status in European football. The dossier remains, for now, in expectation mode, dependent on the appearance of concrete proposals.
What happens next
If Lokomotiv receives a proposal between 7 and 10 million euros, the sale of César Montes could be a reality. The club is about to begin its campaign in the Russian Premier League, facing Akhmat Grozny, and Montes' possible departure could influence the team's dynamics. Lokomotiv management will have to carefully assess the situation to ensure that the decision made is the most beneficial for its future.
Frequently asked questions
What is the suggested value for the sale of César Montes?
The suggested value for the sale of César Montes is between R$7 million and R$10 million.
When is the next Lokomotiv game?
Lokomotiv's next match is against Akhmat Grozny on Sunday, July 26 at 5pm (Moscow time).
What is César Montes' contractual situation at Lokomotiv?
César Montes has a contract with Lokomotiv until the summer of 2029.
How could the sale of Montes impact Lokomotiv in the table?
The sale of Montes could impact Lokomotiv by allowing them to capitalize on a valued player, but there is no specific information about the impact in the table.
How many games did César Montes play in the 2026 World Cup?
César Montes participated in four games at the 2026 World Cup.