Russian duo set for January transfer fight for Pavlyuchenko

Russian duo Spartak and Lokomotiv Moscow are ready to wage a January transfer battle for Tottenham striker Roman Pavlyuchenko.

Both clubs tracked the Russian international during the summer and, at one point, it seemed certain that he would leave White Hart Lane.

But following discussions with Harry Redknapp, Pavlyuchenko opted to stay at Spurs and fight for his first-team place, with Peter Crouch eventually sold to make way for Emmanuel Adebayor.

The former Arsenal and Manchester City striker, however, has struck up an instant understanding with Jermain Defoe in attack and Pavlyuchenko has once again found himself as third choice at the club.

And that situation will prompt his former club Spartak to move in for him again in the New Year, with Lokomotiv also set to enter the bidding, which is expected to start at around £10million.