Shanghai close in on Drogba

Didier Drogba – Chelsea 33-year-old Drogba has struggled to strike a partnership with Fernando Torres, while his previous partner in crime Nicholas Anelka has agreed a move to China. The Ivorian has also been linked to China as well as Russia, though a mo (GETTY IMAGES)

Shanghai Shenhua claim they are in talks to sign Didier Drogba, a month after landing his Chelsea team-mate Nicolas Anelka.

Drogba, who rejected a one-year contract extension at Stamford Bridge, has been linked with a move to China.

Dalian Aerbin reportedly offered the 33-year-old wages of £200,000 a week but their Chinese Super League rivals are now in pole position.

Shenhua owner Zhu Jun spoke of the pursuit on the Chinese equivalent of Twitter, saying: "It's like flirting with a girl. Perhaps she will resist you at first, but if you continue to ask her out, it always ends well. Never give up."