Shanghai Shenhua set to fight for Didier Drogba

The Turkish giants announced a deal on Monday that would see the 34-year-old striker join up with them immediately after the African Nations Cup, which is currently ongoing in South Africa.

But Shenhua, the club Drogba joined from Chelsea last summer, issued a statement on their website describing themselves as “deeply shocked” and insisted that Drogba remains under contract in China.

“We understand that Drogba is eager to participate in the European Champions League,” the statement added.

“Shanghai Shenhua Football Club and Drogba on July 1, 2012 officially signed a formal contract for a period of two and a half years. The club has acted in accordance with this contract, and has effectively fulfilled the responsibilities and obligations of the club.

“Currently, Drogba is still a player of Shanghai Shenhua Football Club, the contract between the two parties is still within the period of validity.

“Shanghai Shenhua is prepared to collate all the evidence and information and submit it to FIFA in order to protect its interests.”

Galatasaray’s announcement said that Drogba had agreed an 18-month deal to move to Turkey and join up with Wesley Sneijder as part of a new-look side.

Drogba, speaking through his representatives Sports PR Company on Twitter, said at the time: “The opportunity to play for this great club was an offer that I could not turn down.

“I am looking forward to playing in the Champions League again, against the best clubs in Europe.”