Spartak Moscow are chasing Chelsea winger Mohamed Salah.
The Daily Star says Spartak boss Murat Yakin has admitted he is desperate to sign Chelsea flop Salah in January.
"I want to sign both Salah and Fabian Frei (still at Basel). I know both players well," he said.
"I know the economic situation in Russia is not the best, but the club can afford both players' wages.
"The club president promised a surprise in the upcoming transfer market. I spoke with him about both Salah and Frei and I hope it will happen, that'd be my Christmas present.
"I'll do whatever it takes to get Salah in the team, even if I have to beg for it."