Demidov to Depart, Possibly to Norway

Vadim Demidov has played in the Bundesliga and La Liga, as well as for the Norwegian national team. The center-back was brought into Minnesota United to provide leadership as club captain. He was dropped from Adrian Heath's starting lineup after the Loons conceded 11 goals in their first two matches. His replacement, Minnesotan Brent Kallman, fit in immediately, sealing Demidov's status as a bench player.

The Norwegian was not available or has not traveled to recent away matches against FC Dallas and the Houston Dynamo, and multiple sources have reported that he has fallen out of favor with the Minnesota United coaching staff. It now looks likely that the club will choose to cut their losses and sell Vadim Demidov.

Though Minnesota has no official Designated Players (DPs) on the roster, Demidov is considered to be near that level. The front office pays for Demidov with Targeted Allocation Money (TAM) instead of a DP-level salary, which means Minnesota may be on the hook for money after his departure.

Where will Demidov end up? It appears likely that he would return to his native Norway and play in the Eliteserien as multiple sources have guessed. Second place club Molde FK has reportedly shown interest, as has second-to-bottom Vålerenga (who have let in 10 goals from 4 matches). It isn't known what a possible transfer fee would be valued at.

Thoughts on Vadim Demidov or his potential destination? Let us know in the comments!