Zhirkov deal still not done
442 Staff - Friday 03 July 2009, 17:57
CSKA Moscow insist Yuri Zhirkov's move to Chelsea is still not a done deal, with AC Milan believed to have registered an interest in the wide-man.
The 25-year-old has long been linked with a move to the Roman Abramovich-owned Blues, with former coach Guus Hiddink reported to have instructed the Russian to splash out on him this summer.
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez was also thought to be pondering a move for the highly-rated left-sided player - dubbed the 'Russian Ronaldinho' - who impressed in Russia's run to the semi-finals of Euro 2008.
While Arsenal forward Andrey Arshavin was keen to see his fellow countryman become a Gunner, whose fans are hopeful of several experienced heads arriving at the Emirates Stadium to compliment a squad awash with talented starlets.
According to Russian daily Sport Express, the flying full-back was set to arrive in England on Wednesday to become Carlo Ancelotti's first signing as Stamford Bridge boss for a fee in the region of €20 million.
However, CSKA President Yevgeny Giner has revealed that no deal for the player has been concluded, despite admitting that the club are in talks with the Blues.
“I won't deny that we are negotiating with Chelsea on the transfer of Zhirkov to the London club,” Giner said in the Daily Mail.
“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.”
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