Source: SKY_Sports
Zhirkov closes on Chelsea switch
Yuri Zhirkov is reportedly in London to finalise his move to Chelsea after concluding it would have been 'inexcusable' to let the opportunity pass.
The Russian winger is to have his medical on Monday ahead of completing a £18million move from CSKA Moscow, which will see him sign a reported £80,000-a-week deal until 2012.
Zhirkov has impressed greatly over the past couple of seasons and has been on Chelsea's radar ever since a fine showing at the 2008 European Championship.
Chelsea have already made two market moves to date in luring young English talent Daniel Sturridge and Ross Turnbull to the capital, but it is Zhirkov's signature that will be deemed new boss Carlo Ancelotti's first major signing.
"I have always dreamed of playing in a top club," Zhirkov said.
"It would have been inexcusable to let this opportunity pass."
CSKA president Yevgeny Giner concedes his club are in negotiations with Chelsea but is adamant the deal is not yet rubber-stamped.
"In transfer issues there are many nuances which could make any deal fall through," he said.
"But I won't deny we are negotiating with Chelsea about Zhirkov's move to London."
