The CSKA Moscow midfielder has been linked with a number of clubs over the last month, including Chelsea and Juventus, but it is the Nou Camp that has a special draw for the 25-year-old.

Zhirkov revealed he has had a soft spot for Barcelona since he was small and was an avid viewer last season as Pep Guardiola's side became the first Spanish team to win the treble of Primera Division, Copa del Rey and European Cup.

"The Spanish league is followed closely in Russia and I've seen many games, above all those of Barca, who have been my team for many years. Last season I saw tons of games and they were in fantastic form," said Zhirkov.

"I've always liked their style of play and the concept of football they have."

Barca have already confirmed they are looking to make around four signings this summer to strengthen their all-conquering squad, and reports in Spain suggest Zhirkov is one of the players they are looking at to possibly link up with Eric Abidal down the left.

"I would love to be this player," Zhirkov added in Spanish newspaper Sport.

"In football anything is possible, but first Barca will have to make an offer and then it has to be accepted by CSKA, who are in charge if my future."

Barca are not the only team reportedly chasing the Russian international though, and there was recent speculation that Chelsea had agreed a deal for the player.

However, Zhirkov insists he has not signed anything with the English outfit or any other club, saying: "Of course not. Proof of that is that several weeks have passed since those rumours came out and I continue here, at CSKA. My club have never spoken with any team about me.

"These stories continually appear on the internet and in the media, but I prefer not to give any time to rumours. Until this time, CSKA have not received any offer and officially they have not started negotiations with any club."

When asked if the fact that Chelsea were owned by fellow Russian Roman Abramovich could tilt the scales in favour of the Blues, Zhirkov added: "Well, I don't know ... but I repeat that my team is Barca and I want to play there. Barca is my first option and it's my dream to play for this club some day."