Spanish giants Barcelona have lined up Didier Drogba for their next “hot transfer” by offering him a two-year deal worth up to £ 5million a season.

Tito Vilanova, the new boss expected to succeed Pep Guardiola after their Copa Del Rey final against Athletic Bilbao next week, is keen to cover David Villa with a world-class striker.

A Barcelona source confirmed, “What the team needs is an attacking player who has the presence and strength to trouble defenders. Drogba has that profile and is one of the players the club are looking at.”

Currently, Drogba is nearing the end of his contract with Chelsea and has lucrative offers from China, Milan and USA. AC Milan have sought him for years and the fresh transfer news has attracted a lucrative bid from the Italian giants while Shanghai FC is leading the Drogba chase with the most tempting offer till date.

The contribution towards the Blues comeback over his eight season stay at Stamford bridge has forced Roman Abramovich to offer an enticing new two-year deal to the Ivory Coast striker. The multi-billionaire Chelsea owner is believed to leave no stone unturned to keep the ‘Golden Boy’ at Stamford Bridge.

The transfer decision will be taken after his team plays the Champions League final on Saturday. Drogba spent most of his time off the field this season after suffering a broken foot. Internal sources speculate that the transfer is necessary to help Fernando Torres step out of Drogba’s shadow.

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