Drogba: I couldn't say no

Didier Drogba says he turned down offers from top Italian clubs because Chelsea's deal was too good to refuse.

As Standard Sport reported yesterday, Drogba is joining Chelsea in a record £23million move from French side Marseille and is due in London today for a medical.

The Ivory Coast striker will sign a four-year contract worth £60,000-a-week and admitted the money was a major factor in his decision.

He said: "I wanted to stay at Marseille because I have experienced fantastic times there, but financially and in a sporting sense I could not refuse Chelsea's offer. I made my decision on my own, no one influenced me. What convinced me to join Chelsea is that they really showed that they wanted me, and that counts a lot. I will give my best for them now."

Drogba, who tormented Liverpool and Newcastle in last season's UEFA Cup, also disclosed how Chelsea had fought off competition from several Serie A giants to land him.

The Blues initially had an £18m bid for the 26-year-old turned down last week but head coach Jose Mourinho made him his No1 priority and Drogba added: "I also had offers from Italian clubs but going to Chelsea is an interesting challenge in my career. I am glad to join them and I hope I will live up to their expectations."

Drogba, who becomes Chelsea's record signing ahead of £17m Damien Duff, will be joined at Stamford Bridge by Portugal international Tiago, who completed a medical at the club yesterday.

Midfielder Tiago, who is leaving Benfica, was a non-playing squad member at Euro 2004 and will discuss personal terms today before completing an £8m move.

Chelsea set off tomorrow for their pre-season tour of America which begins with a match against Scottish champions Celtic.

As well as facing Martin O'Neill's side, the Blues will also come up against Italian sides Roma and AC Milan.