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Chelsea transfer news: Roman Abramovich could recruit Didier Drogba and Leonid Slutsky replace Michael Emenalo

Russian billionaire to take hands-on role at Stamford Bridge after one of his closest allies at the club resigned

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CHELSEA owner Roman Abramovich could bring Didier Drogba back to Stamford Bridge as a replacement for Michael Emenalo, according to reports.

The billionaire may also attempt to hire fellow Russian Leonid Slutsky should he fall out of favour at Hull, it has been claimed.

 Didier Drogba could be brought back to Chelsea by Roman Abramovich
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Didier Drogba could be brought back to Chelsea by Roman AbramovichCredit: Reuters

The Telegraph report that Abramovich is to take a more hands-on role at Stamford Bridge since the departure of his close ally earlier this week.

And while current club chief Marina Granovskaia is expected to fulfil much of the duties Emenalo carried out, Blues legend Drogba could yet be brought back into the fold.

The former striker joined American side Phoenix Rising as a player-owner earlier this year.

He plans to move into a sporting director role once leaving the pitch and is a firm favourite of Abramovich with the two said to still be "extremely close".

 The Russian owner and former striker remain close
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The Russian owner and former striker remain closeCredit: Getty Images
 Didier Drogba is currently in America with his side Phoenix Rising
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Didier Drogba is currently in America with his side Phoenix RisingCredit: AFP

But Slutsky is reportedly another possibility, even though he is currently in charge of Championship strugglers Hull.

The Telegraph claim there is "every chance" the 46-year-old could be offered "some kind" of role at Stamford Bridge if he were to be axed.

Abramovich is close to Slutsky and put the ex-Russia boss up in one of the Stamford Bridge hotels when he arrived in London.

He was also allowed access to Cobham to watch Chelsea's youth teams and reportedly "introduced to influential figures at English clubs".

 Michael Emenalo quit his role at Chelsea technical director
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Michael Emenalo quit his role at Chelsea technical directorCredit: Getty
 Leonid Slutsky could be considered for a job at Stamford Bridge
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Leonid Slutsky could be considered for a job at Stamford BridgeCredit: Getty Images

Some Blues fans were yesterday united in their belief that Andrea Pirlo's retirement meant he was destined for a top job at Chelsea.

However, other reports claim Chelsea could absolve Emenalo's old role altogether.

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