DROGBA SIGNS FOR SHENHUA

Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has confirmed that he has accepted an offer from Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua. The 34-year-old striker has been out of contract with the European champions. Didier Drogba decided to bring an end to his eight-year spell with the Premier league club after not being offered a two-year deal by Chelsea.

It is thought that Chelsea were interested only in offering a one-year deal for the striker, who will turn 35 years of age in March, because they have Fernando Torres back to his best. However, Shanghai Shenhua have moved into to secure the signing of the Ivorian international, who will be a major coup for the club following the signing of Anelka from Chelsea earlier in January.

Didier Drogba told Chelsea news a few days ago that he will soon reveal his next destination. The two parties have been holding advanced negotiations in the last couple of days. Didier Drogba has now signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with the Chinese club. It is estimated that Drogba will become one of the highest paid players in the world, as he will be earning around £ 220,000 per week. It is thought that his charity foundation, which needs a lot of funds, played a major role in his decision to move to China.

“I considered all the offers I have received in the past few weeks, but feel Shanghai Shenhua is the right move for me at this time. I’m looking forward to a new challenge and experiencing a new culture, and am excited about developments in the Chinese Super League. When Chelsea went to China last year, we had a great time and I met some amazing fans. I hope to help promote Chinese football around the world and further improve the links between China and Africa,” said Didier Drogba after confirming his move to China.