Chelsea reportedly to sign Russian int'l Zhirkov

CSKA Moscow star Yuri Zhirkov will sign a contract with Chelsea on Wednesday, according to reports in Russia.

The Russian international has been linked with a move away from CSKA for some time, with Chelsea and Barcelona both thought to be in the running for the player's signature.

Zhirkov insisted earlier this month he had no knowledge of Chelsea's interest, but Russian daily Sport-Express reports that the 25-year-old defender, who can also play on the left wing, will fly to London on Wednesday to rubber-stamp a four-year contract.

It is believed that the signing of Zhirkov, who has been one of Europe's most sought-after players since his impressive displays for Russia at Euro 2008, will cost Chelsea a fee in the region of $28 million.