Branislav Ivanovic is on the verge of leaving Chelsea to sign for Zenit St Petersburg

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".

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