CSKA open to Honda departure

CSKA Moscow are willing to sell midfielder Keisuke Honda for the right price, general director Roman Babaev has confirmed.

Honda has been linked with a number of clubs in the off-season, including Everton and Milan.

However, Babaev, despite admitting that the Japan international could well be sold in the transfer window, stressed that Honda will remain a CSKA player until a formal offer for his services comes in.

“(The situation) has not changed. Honda could be speaking to another club at the moment, because the rules allow it,” Babaev told Sport Express.

“But our position is clear. We are ready to let him go if we receive a reasonable offer.

“We are pleased that Milan are interested but we also have to be realistic. Yes, his expiring contract affects his market value but there is a limit as to how low we can go.

“We are not worried if he ends up leaving the club on a free transfer.

“It is a difficult decision to make – part ways with Honda now or keep him until his contract expires.

“We are interested to know how this progresses. The ball is in Milan’s court now.”