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The Bluebirds, who are City's next opponents in the Championship, are looking to tie up a loan deal for the former Chelsea player after lengthy discussions with Fulham.
The Russian joined the Premiership side in 2007 from Dynamo Moscow but has rarely featured since Roy Hodgson took over the West London side. Cardiff are looking to add to their squad and with time winding down in the transfer window Dave Jones described disussions with the player as 'advance'.
Smertin had loan spells with Charlton and Portsmouth during his side with Chelsea but failed to make a break through at Stamford Bridge though the 33 year old could now be a key part of a Cardiff side pushing for promotion.
Peter Ridsdale told BBC Sport Wales: ""We have done a deal to bring a midfield player in, but there are administration reasons which will mean it goes right to the wire," he said.
"It will either happen or not as the case may be, but we'll be working trying to get that done before the deadline."
Any deal between the player and the club will mean that Smertin's debut will be against Bristol City.