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Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Russia star Yuri Zhirkov, according to his agent.
The 25-year-old CSKA Moscow left-sided player has long been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge with both Guus Hiddink and Roman Abramovich known to rate him highly.
His agent has now revealed that a £19million transfer has been arranged and will be announced in the summer. Russian newspaper Tvoi Den today backed up the deal when it quoted one of the player's representatives.
It read: "Zhirkov recently signed a contract with the British club.
"The transfer is not being announced as it was agreed in the strictest confidence.
"Yuri still has to complete his duties in the Russian championship, so the bosses did not want the supporters to know about it.
"The transfer will be formally announced in mid-summer."
CSKA boss, Brazilian legend Zico, appeared to have given his blessing to the decision in an earlier interview about the player.
"I will not stand in the way of this move," he said.
"A player of Zhirkov's level could really excel in the English Premier League - I could see him being a key performer for the London club."
Reader views (2)
Will see I wish him a good luck
- Ombre, Johannesburg South Africa, 31/05/2009 07:54
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And it's just been announced that Arsenal have signed Carlos Ninos. A 12 year old currently with Costa Del Sol FC. 'He'll be a star talent who'll help us win many trophies' said Arsene Wenger, 'in 2015'. The spirit in the dressing room is said to be strong!
- Chris, Brighton, England., 30/05/2009 11:36
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