Spartak spend big on Argentinians

Record deal
Cavenaghi, 20, becomes the most expensive player in the history of eastern European football after joining Spartak for in excess of €10m, while 22-year-old Rodríguez, an Argentinian international, becomes the region's most expensive defender at €6m.

Spending spree
The Argentinian youngsters become the fourth and fifth major signings for Spartak in recent weeks following the arrivals of FK Crvena Zvezda captain Nemanja Vidic and the Czech Republic defender Martin Jiránek, as well as the return of 31-year-old Russia international Dmitri Alenichev from FC Porto.

'No problem'
Spartak are languishing in 13th spot in the Premier-Liga, but Cavenaghi is confident his new-look side will soon arrest the slide. "This is not a problem," he said. "I am sure the situation will get better. A club with a history like Spartak's deserves to be at the top. I want to score a lot, as much as possible and, with God's help, I hope to do it for Spartak."

Striking success
Cavenaghi progressed through the youth ranks at River Plate before making his debut in February 2001. He went on to score 55 times in 88 league appearances, winning the title twice. No stranger to success, Cavenaghi was also a member of Argentina's South American Youth Championship-winning side last year, ending the tournament as top scorer with eight goals in nine matches, and scored four more in the 2003 FIFA World Youth Championship.

Argentina international
Rodríguez broke into the Boca Juniors team during the 2000/01 season and quickly established himself as a regular in the side, and one of the best left-backs in the country. A Copa Libertadores winner in 2001 and 2003, Rodríguez has been capped seven times by Argentina and will represent his country at the Athens Olympics.

Intertoto exit