The owner of MLS side Portland Timbers has revealed he would like to sign Chelsea veteran Didier Drogba in the summer.

Drogba, who rejoined the Blues last July, is out of contract at the end of the season and his future is uncertain.

The 36-year-old has already hinted that this could be is last season as a professional and Chelsea plan to offer him a coaching role when he retires.

But Drogba has also spoken of his desire to play in MLS in the past and Portland Timbers are looking to capitalise.

While conceding a deal is unlikely at this stage, Portland owner Merritt Paulson says he would love Drogba to be the next big name to move across the Atlantic.

He said: “Drogba is a unique guy who, despite his age, is uniquely skilled to clean up in MLS.

"The League almost signed him a couple years ago and I know my coach would love him to be a Timber, but I highly doubt it at this point.”

Drogba has made a major impact on his second stint at Chelsea and scored six goals so far.

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But Chelsea are already preparing for his departure and are looking at possible replacements for next season, including Benfica star Anderson Talisca and Inter Milan's Mauro Icardi.

Chelsea's potential 'ins and outs' during the January transfer window 1 show all Chelsea's potential 'ins and outs' during the January transfer window 1/1 OUT: Kurt Zouma Reports in Turkey suggest that Besiktas are confident they have agreed a loan deal with Chelsea for the France Under-21 defender. Zouma has been playing second fiddle to John Terry and Gary Cahill in central defence, making just six starts. However, Mourinho rates the 20-year-old highly and needs him as back-up to the English duo. If he was allowed to leave, Mourinho would have to bring someone else in, which is counter productive. GETTY 1/1 OUT: Kurt Zouma Reports in Turkey suggest that Besiktas are confident they have agreed a loan deal with Chelsea for the France Under-21 defender. Zouma has been playing second fiddle to John Terry and Gary Cahill in central defence, making just six starts. However, Mourinho rates the 20-year-old highly and needs him as back-up to the English duo. If he was allowed to leave, Mourinho would have to bring someone else in, which is counter productive. GETTY

Back in 2013, Drogba admitted he would consider a switch to the MLS, where Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has just confirmed he will be moving to at the end of the campaign to line up for LA Galaxy.

Drogba said at the time: "Maybe one day it would be another challenge. If the time comes and if there is a possibility, why not?"

Seattle Sounders, Chicago Fire and New York Red Bulls have also been linked with Drogba in the past.

Just like Gerrard, Drogba would be able to offered a large salary under the League's Designated Player rule, but Portland will have to make room for him as they currently have all three slots filled.