Chelsea make Drogba approach

Chelsea have approached Marseille with a view to signing Didier Drogba at the end of next season, but l'OM have stated that their Ivory Coast attacker is not for sale.

Drogba starred in the French club's charge to the Uefa Cup final, playing particularly well in the semi-final win over Newcastle United.

The African has pledged to remain at Stade Velodrome for at least another season, but Chelsea are already planning for the future with Roman Abramovich's transfer chest always a tempting proposition for any selling clubs.

"They have contacted us about Drogba but have not made a precise bid," confirmed Marseille chairman Christophe Bouchet.

"We met Chelsea and Juventus officials out of courtesy but a transfer is out of the question.

"We want to build a winning team around Didier."

Marseille have signed Habib Bamogo from relegated Montpellier which has sparked speculation in some quarters that he could be a long-term replacement for Drogba.

Bamogo is signing a five-year deal with his new club with Montpellier receiving around ‚é¼4 million for their top scorer.

The deal has not been finalised because Bamogo is in Burkina Faso at the moment.