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Yuri Zhirkov's Switch To Chelsea From CSKA Moscow Still In The Balance

The 'Russian Ronaldinho' may yet end up at Stamford Bridge, but Milan's reported interest could influence negotiations for the Moscow man...

Jul 3, 2009 10:16:44 PM

RPL: Yuri Zhirkov - CSKA (championat.ru)

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RPL: Yuri Zhirkov - CSKA (championat.ru)

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Yury Zhirkov

According to Russian daily Sport Express, CSKA Moscow's 25-year-old full-back Yuri Zhirkov was due to arrive in London on Wednesday of this week to sign for Chelsea for around €20 million. He didn't, and so has not yet become Carlo Ancelotti's first major signing for the west London club.

And while CSKA president Yevgeny Giner has admitted that his club are in talks with Chelsea, Ancelotti's former club AC Milan are now said to have indicated an interest in signing the player, reports Four Four Two.

In fact, as well as the Rossoneri, Zhirkov has also been linked with Liverpool and Arsenal - although Chelsea remain the favourites, former coach Guus Hiddink having apparently advised Blues owner Roman Abramovich to sign the attacking defender known as the 'Russian Ronaldinho'.

The Daily Mail quote Giner as saying, “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.”

Arsenal's Andrey Arshavin is also thought to be keen to see his compatriot and international team-mate join him at the Emirates, but the price tag may deter Gunners' manager Arsene Wenger from pursuing Zhirkov. And the possible entry of Milan in the hunt could influence any negotiations.

Graham Lister, Goal.com

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