Northampton were keen to snap up the Crewe Alexandra frontman as Ian Sampson continues his search for striking reinforcements.
However it appears that Burton have won the race to sign Zola after talks with Brewers boss Paul Peschisolido.
26-year-old Zola was on Newcastle's books as a youngster and has since notched up 42 league goals in just under 200 league games for Oldham Athletic, Tranmere Rovers and Crewe.
"Calvin and his agent have been circulating his availability to a number of clubs and if I am honest I don't know where he wishes to go. It is out of my hands and up to him," Railwaymen boss Dario Gradi told the Crewe Chronicle.
"Burton think they are going to be able to sign him so that's probably the most positive thing I can tell you at the moment."