As the winter football transfer window heats up, Serbian defender Jovan Marinković, currently playing for Novi Pazar, is rumored to be on the move to Shakhter Karagandy, a club in Kazakhstan. This potential transfer is generating significant interest.
Marinković, a 30-year-old Serbian player, has been a key defender for Novi Pazar since joining in July 2025. His market value is estimated by Transfermarkt at €500,000.
Several Kazakhstani clubs have expressed interest in Marinković, with Shakhter Karagandy appearing to be the most eager to secure his signature. Shakhter Karagandy is known for recruiting international talent to strengthen its squad in the Kazakhstan Premier League.
Sources suggest Marinković is open to the move to Kazakhstan, which could facilitate smoother negotiations.
Marinković is in the final year of his contract with Novi Pazar. This situation places Novi Pazar in a less advantageous negotiating position, as players in their final contract year can depart for free upon its expiration. Consequently, Novi Pazar would likely accept a symbolic, modest transfer fee to gain some compensation rather than lose him without any return.
For Novi Pazar, losing Marinković could impact their defense, but the transfer offers a chance to receive some compensation and potentially invest in new talent. For Shakhter Karagandy, acquiring Marinković would bolster their defense with an experienced player, potentially adding leadership qualities.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining if Marinković’s move to Shakhter Karagandy materializes, marking a new phase in his career by transitioning from the Serbian league to Kazakhstan’s top division.
