Chelsea officials in Moscow to complete £18m Yuri Zhirkov signing

30 June 2009 13:51
Chelsea are on the verge of completing the £18million signing of Russia star Yuri Zhirkov. Sportsmail reported last week that the Blues were confident of finalising a move for the versatile CSKA Moscow player after first making enquiries in January. And Chelsea officials are today thought to be in the Russian capital ahead of completing a deal when the transfer window officially opens tomorrow. Stamford Bridge owner Roman Abramovich agreed a deal in principle with CSKA president Yevgeny Giner several months ago and Zhirkov, 25, is ready to sign a three-year £80,000 a week deal that will have the automatic option of a fourth season. He can play either as an attacking left-back or a left winger. CSKA Moscow boss Zico says he has already asked the club to look for two wide players but admits he will not be able to fill the gap left by Zhirkov. 'Currently in football there is no player who is able to replace Zhirkov,' said the Brazilian. 'Zhirkov to CSKA is like Cristiano Ronaldo to Manchester United or Kaka to AC Milan. 'As we know, both players moved to Real Madrid and I think their former clubs will be seriously concerned about how they will do in the future without their star players. 'Remember how Manchester looked last season when Ronaldo was missing. The attack of the team looked much weaker.'

Source: Daily_Mail