Three days after Chelsea has finally confirmed that Didier Drobga will leave Chelsea when his contract lapses in June; the club has also confirmed the release of José Bosingwa and striker Salomon Kalou.

The West London club opted not to take up Bosingwa as an alternative for Drogba while Kalou whose contract expires was not offered a renewal chance.

This comes amid the talks with Florent Malouda, Michael Essien, Frank Lampard and Paulo Ferreira for new contract though their stay is not yet guaranteed.

The Blues are also weighing up recalling goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Yossi Benayoun from successful loans in Atletico Madrid and Arsenal respectively while they loan out De Bruyne and striker Romelu Lukaku.

Chelsea has already brought in Marko Marin and Kevin De Bruyne as they are expected to add two more significant signings. Lille star Eden Hazard who is also linked with the two Manchester sides, is their great target.

Drogba wanted a two-year deal but the blues offered only one which marked the end of his eight years spell at Stamford Bridge.

"I wanted to put an end to all the speculation and confirm that I am leaving Chelsea. It has been a very difficult decision for me to make and I am very proud of what we have achieved but the time is right for a new challenge for me,’’ He said.

The Ivorian striker has been linked with a move to Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua, where he would link up with former team-mate Nicolas Anelka on a lucrative contract.