Oleksandr Zubkov spent only one and a half seasons at Trabzonspor — from February 2025. During this time, he played 57 matches, scored 12 goals and provided 16 assists, becoming one of the key players of the Turkish club. Now the 29-year-old winger is moving to Athens.
How much the transfer cost
The official amount fixed by the Turkish public disclosure platform KAP is 4 million euros. Additionally, the contract includes bonuses of 500 thousand euros and 10% of the amount from any future sale of the player. Transfermarkt estimates Zubkov at 6 million euros — meaning AEK bought him at a discount from his market value.
According to Sport.ua, this was enough for Zubkov to enter the top five most expensive transfers in the club's history, sharing fourth place with Robert Ljubičić.
Why AEK is spending so much right now
The context of the purchase is significant: AEK has just won the Greek championship for the 2025/26 season, ahead of Olympiacos by six points. This means a direct berth to the fourth qualifying round of the 2026/27 Champions League — the most prestigious European competition, where experienced players in big matches are needed.
AEK announces the signing of footballer Oleksandr Zubkov, who transferred from Trabzonspor. Oleksandre, welcome to AEK.
— Official statement from AEK Athens press service
Career trajectory: from Mariupol to European cups
Zubkov is a product of Donetsk football who went through Mariupol, Shakhtar and Hungarian Ferencváros. In the national team, he played 45 matches (3 goals, 4 assists). The move to AEK is the first club in his career where he is guaranteed to play in the Champions League.
- Contract: until summer 2030
- Fee: 4 million euros + 500 thousand in bonuses + 10% from resale
- Status: fourth to fifth most expensive purchase in AEK's history
- Next European competition: 2026/27 Champions League qualification
It is worth noting: before signing, Zubkov seriously considered the MLS according to Glavkom — the American league where players mostly finish their careers rather than build their peak. The choice of AEK with Champions League qualification looks different.
The question that the 2026/27 season will answer: will Zubkov, who has never played in the group stage of a top European competition, make it through qualification and establish himself at this level — or will AEK stop before the main round, leaving the transfer looking good only on paper.
