Drogba is being linked with a January move to the Bianconeri, who are thought to be on the hunt for a forward.

“I don’t know why Drogba’s name is being mentioned,” Conte told Tuttosport. "Nobody has talked to me about him and I haven’t asked for him either…

“Saying that, we could do with a world class player who has won the Champions League. But we know what we need and how to proceed.

“We are aware that we don’t have €50m to spend. But, if we plan ahead, we can buy champions for €35m-€40m.”