RENTAL CONTRACT

I have moved into an unfurnished rented accommodation on october 1st and have signed a 3 year contract. In early january I was unexpectedly made redundant and can no longer afford to keep the apartment. I have contacted the owner and he allowed me to find a replacement to take over my contract, providing he agrees to that person. I have now found someone like that. The owner demands a deposit from the new tenant in order to ensure a commitment, which is fine. My question - which bank account should that deposit go into, mine or the landlord? Also, I am bound by law to pay the rent until the end of April. The new tenant is willing to move in on March 1st but the owner who lives abroad, can only sign the new contract from April 1st. What to do? many thanks.