
Branislav
Ivanovic is on the verge of completing a move from Chelsea to Russian side
Zenit St Petersburg, according to Sky sources.
Our sources close to the deal report that it is 99 per cent done, with the
32-year-old having agreed personal terms.
Ivanovic will join on a free transfer and we understand he has agreed a
two-and-a-half year contract, with an option for a further year.
The Serbia international is set complete the move within 24 hours, after
which he will join up with the Zenit squad in Spain for pre-season training.
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte confirmed at his media briefing on Monday that
Ivanovic could be on his way.
Conte said: "He has played a lot of games for Chelsea and has won a lot
here.
"He is 32 years old and can play many more years at the top level but it's
important to respect the player's decision.
"If you are not playing a lot, you can make a decision to go to another team
but, with respect for him, I am sorry to see him go.
"When you start the season with a certain group and you try to create a link
between the staff and players, we are sorry if someone decides to go away.
"But we know it is football and we are prepared for every situation".