Vanche Shikov could soon have a new team after he received an enticing offer from Austria Wien.

Vanche Shikov is currently a free agent after his 3-year contract expired with Volyn this summer.  He had a tough ending at Volyn over the past couple of months after he was relegated to train with the reserves for refusing to sign a new contract.  Basically, Vanche was given an ultimatum by Volyn: sign a new deal or train with the reserves.  Shikov and Volyn could never get on the same page while negotiating a new deal, so he was stripped of his captaincy and trained with the reserves while nursing an injury.

The Austria Wien interest in Shikov was speculated last week (which was confirmed by the player to us), but yesterday reputable Austria website LAOLA1.at reported that Austria Wien had submitted an offer for Shikov.  As a reminder, besides Austria Wien, Vanche told us that he has received interest from Vorskla (Ukraine), Mordovia (Russia) and two unnamed clubs from Kazakhstan.  Shikov, who will turn 29 years old next month, told us that he will choose the team that makes him the best financial offer, regardless of the country where they play.

Austria Wien is looking for a central defender to replace Kaja Rogulj who joined Swiss club Luzern this summer.  The club also has a new manager this season after they finished in 4th place during the 2013-14 campaign in Austria.

Shikov has been a regular for the Macedonian national team over the past several years.  He usually plays at right CB, but has also played at RB when Macedonia was thin at that position.  Shikov is a tall player who is smart, composed and strong in the air.  He is also dangerous on offense due to his heading ability on set pieces.  As far is weaknesses, Shikov, like other tall central defenders, lacks speed.  Skilled short and quick attackers can give him problems. 

Over his three years in Ukraine, Vanche made a total of 68 league appearances and scored 3 goals.  Also, Shikov was the free kick taker for Volyn on shots from long distance.