Speculation has been rife that the 33-year-old could leave Stamford Bridge when his contract expires to join Shanghai Shenhua, where former Blues team-mate Nicolas Anelka currently plies his trade.

However, the Ivorian has now categorically denied that rumour and insists that his future lies in west London.

"Everybody knows I love the club and everyone knows I want to stay. We are still talking about it, so let's see what comes out of the discussions. I'm optimistic something can happen," he told The Sun.

"I love Chelsea and I think they love me as well. I think we are going to find something and make a decision which suits everyone - me, the club and the fans."

"At the same time, if it doesn't happen that's life but you will never change the respect and the love we created together."

"My heart is Blue."

Drogba also expressed an interest in being involved with the club in a managerial role when his playing days draw to a close.

"It would be interesting to be Chelsea manager. I love this club and I always want to help the people I love, so why not," he said.

"If I was a manager I would give a lot to my players. You have to show them you care and that they are the best and they will pay you back."