Source: SKY_Sports
Zhirkov prefers Barca
Yuri Zhirkov has refused to rule out a move to Chelsea but admits he would rather join Barcelona.
The versatile CSKA Moscow winger has had to deny reports in recent weeks that a deal had been agreed for him to move to Stamford Bridge.
He still maintains that he has received no offers but has clarified his position following fresh links with Barcelona.
The Russia international was quoted as saying that he was holding out for a switch to Camp Nou, but he has now stressed that he would be open to joining Chelsea.
However, Zhirkov has also made it clear that his top priority would be to play regularly and he would be prepared to reject any club that could not offer guarantees.
"I would prefer to join Barcelona, but that does not automatically mean I would turn down Chelsea," he explained in Sport Express.
"I should stress again that there is a difference between playing for a club and sitting on the bench. If I had to sit on the bench, I wouldn't even want to join Barcelona.
"I am still yet to receive any specific offers."
Zhirkov has made no secret of his admiration for AC Milan in the past and admits it would be difficult to choose between the Rossoneri and Barcelona.
"It would depend on the contract," he joked.
"With all else being equal, I would perhaps go to Barcelona because it is a city I like very much and I have friends there.
"However, we are talking about something that is a long way from reality right now."
