Lippi urges AC Milan to move for Drogba

Marcello Lippi believes Didier Drogba would be a huge asset to AC Milan, should they consider a move for the striker.

The former Chelsea forward has been linked with a number of clubs in recent weeks, with the AC Milan and Juventus seemingly towards the front of the queue for his signature.

Lippi, now a coach in China’s Super League with Guangzhou Evergrande, feels the powerful attacker would prove a shrewd acquisition for Massimiliano Allegri, as he would link well with leading Serie A goalscorer Stephan El Shaarawy.

He told Gazzetta dello Sport: “Drogba is still a beast, one who makes the difference on the field. In China, he has scored eight goals in 11 games.

“If it is true that [Alexandre] Pato and Robinho are leaving, I would say he would look good in Milan. Drogba would be invaluable in both the league and the Champions League. He as the holder, [Giampaolo] Pazzini in reserve, and El Shaarawy to the left.”

Lippi added, however, that the huge sum Drogba currently earns with Shanghai Shenhua means he would have to agree to a large pay cut should he opt to move to Italy.

He continued: “After winning the Champions League with Chelsea almost single-handedly, he decided to accept the economic proposal that came from China. It was a choice of football or the heart. It was a choice dictated by economic reasons.

“He probably expected something more to this new adventure from the sporting point of view, as his team only came 12th in the league. But do you think Drogba will agree to halve his salary to come and play in Italy? Well, I have my doubts.”