Eversheds is in the advanced stages of discussions over a tie-up with one of its Russian alliance firms in a deal that could see it further expand its international network of offices. 

The firm has been in talks with alliance partner Capital Legal Services (CLS) since the start of the year over an agreement that could see it join the Eversheds International network.

CLS, a six-partner firm that has bases in Moscow and St Petersburg, formed an alliance with Eversheds in February last year. Eversheds also has an alliance with Russian firm Monastyrsky Zyuba Stepanov & Partners.

Eversheds has earmarked Russia as a key jurisdiction for the firm, and in September 2011 UK managing partner Lee Ranson accompanied Prime Minister David Cameron on an official trade trip to the country. The firm also incorporated a Russian limited liability partnership in 2009 in preparation for a move into the country, but it is understood that this is unlikely to be used. 

Meanwhile, Eversheds is also looking to launch an office in Turkey after opening discussions with Istanbul-based best friend firm Gur. Talks with the six-partner firm, which also has a base in Moscow, are currently at an early stage with a deal unlikely to be confirmed during the current calendar year.

Earlier this year Eversheds elected Ireland managing partner Alan Murphy as the new chairman of its international board following the retirement of predecessor David Gray. Integration with its international network is central to Eversheds' new three-year strategy set out last year by chief executive Bryan Hughes.

Eversheds declined to comment.