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.
Zhirkov has repeatedly insisted he knows nothing of any deal involving Chelsea, and even recently revealed that he would rather join European Cup winners Barcelona instead.
However, according to Russian daily Sport Express, the flying full-back is now 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.
NEWS: Chelsea step up Zhirkov interest
NEWS: Zhirkov: I want to sign for Barcelona
NEWS: Zhirkov: I know nothing of Chelsea deal
NEWS: Chelsea closing in on Zhirkov
NEWS: Arshavin - Arsenal should sign Russian Ronaldinho
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