CSKA warn Chelseas 18m Yuri Zhirkov deal could yet collapse
03 Jul 2009 - 16:04:42
CSKA Moscow have confirmed Yuri Zhirkov is close to signing for Chelsea.
But the Russians have warned the deal could yet be derailed.
AC Milan have reportedly made a late approach for the 25-year-old left-sided player.
But Sportsmail understands the matter of Zhirkov passing a medical is just about all that stands in the way of the transfer.
CSKA president Yevgeny Giner said: 'I won't deny that we are negotiating with Chelsea on the transfer of Zhirkov to the London club.
'But until the contract is signed it is pointless to comment. After all, in all transfers there are so many nuances and any can derail the transaction.
'CSKA are an open club and we will officially comment on the outcome of negotiations once they are completed.'
It is understood that Zhirkov, who can play at left-back and on the left wing, has secured a visa and will travel to London to complete the £18million transfer this weekend.
He is expected to be put through a medical at Cobham in the next few days after agreeing terms on a four-year contract worth £80,000 a week.
