Exclusive: Zhirkov Will Not Join Milan, Inter Or Juventus

Yuri Zhirkov's representative Andrea Banfi has told Goal.com that a January move to any of Italy's big three teams is unlikely, despite a number of reports claiming the CSKA Moscow midfielder was on his way to Juventus.

Zhirkov has been outstanding for both club and country and he was considered one of Russia's best players during Euro 2008. The midfielder has been linked with Milan, Inter and Juve as well as English side Chelsea and Spanish giants Barcelona.

The Russian international carries a heavy price tag and his representative believes this is one of the reasons that will see the player remain in Russia.

"There hasn't been any contact with any club regarding Zhirkov and what ever has been written in the Italian press has been invented," Banfi told Goal.com."A January move is impossible for him. The winter transfer market is where teams make low-cost buys to repair their squads.

"As well as this, there are many Italian clubs who have a restricted budget at the moment.

"Zhirkov is a good player and I am sure that there are teams in Italy who like him."

Although the major Italian clubs are all looking to do business during the transfer window, Zhirkov is unlikely to be the January bargain.

"There are three teams in Italy who could get him and they are Inter, Milan and Juve, but it's unlikely," added Banfi. "Inter have Quaresma and Mancini and they don't need him. Juventus have never called me about any interest and Milan don't have the free quota in their squad for a non-EU player.

"Also, his price tag is very high for Italian clubs and his wages are that of a major club."