Centre-back Emir Spahić has joined FC Anji Makhachkala on loan from Sevilla FC on the final day of the Russian transfer window.

Spahić moves to Anji to fill the void left by Christopher Samba's January departure for Queens Park Rangers FC. The Bosnian-Herzegovinian international, 32, had spells at FC Lokomotiv Moskva and Montpellier Hérault SC before arriving in southern Spain in summer 2011. Although Spahić is a temporary signing until the end of the season, Anji will have the option of a permanent deal.

Guus Hiddink's side, 4-2 aggregate victors over Hannover 96 in the UEFA Europa League round of 32, face Newcastle United FC in the last 16. The first leg takes place in Moscow on 7 March.