• Centre-half lasted six months with relegated QPR • Said previously he had no plans to go back to Russia

This article is more than 7 years old

This article is more than 7 years old

Christopher Samba is on the verge of rejoining Anzhi Makhachkala for £12m.

The 29-year-old was signed by Queens Park Rangers from the Russian club for a similar fee in January as they looked to beat the drop from the Premier League.

It is a surprise about-turn by the defender, who said he was happy with his family in London.

"All the money in the world cannot make you happy if you don't have your family with you," Samba said.

"I came back to be with my family. Life needs to have both sides – enjoy your football and have your loved ones close to you. I have no plans to go back to Russia."

The former Blackburn centre-back was one of the west London club's key targets in January as Harry Redknapp looked to shore up his defence.

Samba failed to live up to his billing and was unimpressive for the Rs, notably in a woeful performance against their rivals Fulham in April.

The Congolese defender handed the Cottagers the opening two goals in what ended up as a 3–2 defeat, all but ending their hopes of staving off relegation.

Samba did himself few favours afterwards by hitting out at those questioning his value and not many fans in W12 will be sad to see the back of him.

Other high earners such as Djibril Cissé, Jay Bothroyd and DJ Campbell have all left this summer as the Rs begin to cut their cloth ahead of life in the Championship.