Didier Drogba has admitted he would relish the chance to play alongside Lyon winger Florent Malouda at Chelsea.

The pair are firm friends from their time at French club Guingamp, and the Ivorian striker believes Malouda has the ability to make a massive impact at Stamford Bridge.

Drogba, whose 33 goals helped Chelsea to win both the Carling and FA Cups last season, believes Malouda would not be afraid of the bruising demands of the Premiership.

He told France Football: "To play in England, he has the physical means to stand any kind of pressure and marking.

"I am convinced he would not need a very long time to adapt.

"Of course we would like to play together again. That would be a dream, because when you are a forward, playing beside such a player is a delight.

"I know we could find each other on the pitch with our eyes closed.

"If he wants to come to Chelsea, I am keen to go and get him all the way on foot myself, because I am aware what a man so decisive and altruistic could bring me."

Malouda has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool, but no official approach has been made and Chelsea remain in the hunt for more players.

The Blues have added to their increasing pool of youngsters after landing Sheffield United academy prospect Jacob Mellis.

The 16-year-old midfielder joined Chelsea after four years with the Yorkshire club.

United could earn up to £1.3million for Mellis, who was a regular for the club's reserve team last season.

The England youth international joins former Oldham teenager Danny Philliskirk at Stamford Bridge.

"It is disappointing to lose such a talent," United chairman Terry Robinson told the club's official website.

"We made a great effort to keep hold of Jacob but he made it clear that he wanted to leave."