Chelsea give Ancelotti licence to shop

Chelsea have assured manager Carlo Ancelotti the answer will be yes if he asks for transfer funds to bolster his squad.

Ancelotti has so far made just one major summer signing with the acquisition of Yossi Benayoun from Liverpool for five million pounds.

The Israel captain’s pre-season progress has been hampered by a slight groin problem but he is expected to be included on the club’s forthcoming tour of Germany.

The club have also lost defender Alex and goalkeeper Petr Cech through injury and chief executive, Ron Gourlay, has confirmed that funds will be made available to Ancelotti should the Chelsea boss require them.

“If Carlo wants to bring a player or two into the squad then we will look at that,” Gourlay told Sky Sports News on Wednesday.

“It has to be the right player to fit into the squad and obviously at the right price.

“If these things all come together then fine, we’ll strengthen the squad. But only if Carlo feels it’s necessary.”

Gourlay made it clear that striker Didier Drogba, back at the club’s training ground today after groin surgery, was not for sale.

The Ivory Coast forward had been linked with a move to Manchester City by the player’s agent but Gourlay said: “Didier will be a Chelsea player next year. Didier is under contract.

“The thing about this time of year is we always get this. For our players to be in the news – it’s normal.

“But Didier Drogba will be a Chelsea player next year.”

Deco’s future also continues to be the subject of speculation with Fluminese rumoured to be ready to land the Portugal midfielder. It is understood he wants to return to his native Brazil to be with his ill son.