Transfer talk: Is Drogba heading to Milan?

Didier Drogba would be a great addition to AC Milan’s squad, coach Massimiliano Allegri said on Wednesday as Italian media speculated that a deal was in the offing.

“Champions of his quality are very welcome,” Allegri told Sky of the 34-year-old, currently with Ivory Coast at the African Nations and keen to leave Shanghai Shenhua only months after joining from Chelsea following their Champions League triumph.

“(Chief Executive Adriano) Galliani knows if we are talking about a doable deal. Certainly Drogba would increase the technical level and belief of the squad.”

Milan, only sixth in Serie A but in the Champions League last 16 where they face Barcelona, have also been linked in the media with Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli despite club owner Silvio Berlusconi questioning his combustible personality.

Milan’s pursuit of Drogba means Serie A leaders Juventus are likely to go for other striker targets including Olympique Lyon’s Lisandro Lopez. Athletic Bilbao’s Fernando Llorente is poised to join Juve in July.

Newcastle complete signing of striker Gouffran

Newcastle United have completed the signing of Girondins Bordeaux forward Yoan Gouffran on a 4-1/2 year deal, the Premier League club said on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old moved for an undisclosed fee, and will wear the number 11 shirt, Newcastle said on its website (www.nufc.co.uk).

“Throughout the last few years I have enjoyed every moment of my time at Bordeaux but all good things must come to an end and it was time for a new challenge,” said Gouffran.

“The challenge of playing for one of the most famous teams in England, with all of its history and its famous support, is very exciting.”

Gouffran began his career at Caen before signing for Bordeaux in 2008 where he made 179 appearances and scored 40 goals including eight in the league this season.

He replaces striker Demba Ba who joined Chelsea earlier this month.

“I liked the look of him when we played Bordeaux at St. James’ Park earlier this season - pacy, direct and intelligent and those are qualities I like in a footballer,” Newcastle manager Alan Pardew said.

Newcastle have also signed French defenders Mapou Yanga Mbiwa and Mathieu Debuchy during the January transfer window.

The club are 16th in the Premier League, two points above the relegation zone.