Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Russia star Yuri Zhirkov, according to reports in Russia.
The 25-year-old CSKA Moscow man, who can play on the left wing or at left back, has long been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge with both Guus Hiddink and Roman Abramovich known to rate him highly.
And his agent has now reportedly revealed that a $30 million (£18.6m) transfer has been arranged and will be announced in the summer.
He told Russian newspaper Tvoi Den: “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 fans to know.
“The transfer will be formally announced in mid-summer.”
CSKA boss Ziko appeared to have given his blessing to the decision in an earlier interview.
“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 player for the London club.
“However, Zhirkov does not belong to me – he belongs to the club – so I will not be dealing with it.”