Report: Vagner Love Could Replace Didier Drogba At Chelsea
The CSKA Moscow forward will be targeted by the Blues should the Ivory Coast international leave Stamford Bridge this summer...
Chelsea have identified Vagner Love as a replacement for Didier Drogba, who could be on his way out of the club at the end of the season, according to a report in The Times.
It is thought that the Blues are considering selling the Ivory Coast forward, who has been linked with Italian giants Inter and former club Olympique de Marseille.
The 30-year-old's contract runs until 2010 and, while it is claimed the player wants to extend his deal, it is said that the west London club have doubts over his long-term fitness; Drogba has previously undergone operations on both knees.
Reportedly, Chelsea are willing to let Drogba leave for €27.3 million (£24m), the same amount as they signed him for in 2004.
Should Inter, Marseille or any other club land the former African Footballer of the Year, Brazilian international striker Vagner Love is being tipped to replace him.
The 24-year-old has been a goal-scoring sensation with both Palmeiras, where he scored 27 goals in 42 games, and current club CSKA Moscow, where he boasts 58 strikes in 105 appearances.
While Guus Hiddink has insisted he will leave his post as Chelsea manager in the summer, it is thought that he has recommended the forward as a bargain should he become available for €17m (£15m).
Ricky Brooks, Goal.com