Vanja Drkušić joins RCD Espanyol on loan from Zenit

RCD Espanyol has officially completed the signing of Slovenian international defender Vanja Drkušić from Zenit Saint Petersburg. The 26-year-old center-back joins the Catalan club on a loan deal lasting until the end of the 2026/27 season, which includes an option for Espanyol to purchase his rights permanently.

Drkušić becomes the fifth summer signing for Espanyol, joining players such as Unai Núñez and Quilindschy Hartman to bolster the squad's defense. The defender brings significant international experience, having recently competed in the Euro 2024 with Slovenia. His previous career includes stints at clubs such as Heerenveen, Red Star Belgrade, and Zenit.

The move follows reports that Drkušić was also being considered by other clubs, including the Greek side PAOK, but ultimately chose to join La Liga to compete at a higher level in one of Europe's top leagues.