Galatasaray in talks over Drogba

Galatasaray assistant coach Hasan Sas has confirmed the club are in negotiations to sign Didier Drogba from Shanghai Shenhua.

The Ivory Coast striker has been linked with a host of Europe’s biggest sides in recent months, with Juventus long-term admirers of the player.

But after completing the signing of Wesley Sneijder from Inter last week, the Istanbul club have now turned their attentions to attracting another big name, as their January recruitment drive continues.

“Drogba is a world-class player. I know that our board is in negotiations. There should be some clarifications in one or two days, but what we know is that there are some positive unfoldings,” Sas said following his side’s 2-1 win over Besiktas.

On Monday, Galatasaray confirmed on their official website that negotiations with the striker’s representatives over a transfer have commenced.

“Negotiations with Shanghai Shenhua attacker Didier Drogba’s agents over a potential transfer to Galatasaray have started. Any developments will be communicated later on,” it read.

Drogba only moved to China last June after calling time on his eight-year stay with Chelsea, but rumours have persisted that he could make a swift return to Europe on either a temporary or permanent basis, with his club’s league season concluding two months ago.

In November, FIFA refused to allow the 34-year-old to make an immediate loan move away from Shenhua, though he could now leave the club on a permanent basis.