Chelsea are holding talks with Ukranian Andriy Shevchenko after the AC Milan striker arrived at Stamford Bridge to negotiate his £34million transfer.
The Italian club last night granted the 29-year-old Ukraine captain permission to travel to London for further discussions after Shevchenko had declared his intention to leave the Serie A giants.
Although the Premiership champions maintain "no deal has yet been finalised", it is hoped agreement can be reached to allow their long-term target complete his move tomorrow.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has already added German captain Michael Ballack to his squad and hopes to make another significant addition to his side.
"An agreement between all parties is still pending," Chelsea said.
Since joining the club in 1999, Shevchenko has scored 173 goals for Milan, the second most their history behind Gunnar Nordahl with 221.
Last week declared his intention to leave the Serie A giants.
"I am leaving for family reasons," said Shevchenko. "I want to thank the club (Milan) for everything it's given to me."
Yesterday Chelsea completed the signing of promising young forward Salomon Kalou, 20, on a three year deal from Dutch club Feyenoord for an undisclosed fee.
Shevchenko will play at the World Cup this summer.
