Ivory Coast star Drogba is reportedly holding out for a two-year deal to replace the contract that expires at the end of the season, with the Blues said to have offered only a one-year extension. The parties have less than a month to end the impasse before Drogba is able to sign a pre-contract agreement with a rival club when the January transfer window opens. The 33-year-old this week claimed he could play at the highest level at least until he was 36 after coming to the rescue of the Blues' Champions League campaign with two goals in their 3-0 win against Valencia. And it appears he has won over manager Villas-Boas, who said: "I agree with that. "His level of performance has been outstanding, helping the club and team-mates. "Of course, the club have to agree that players who perform are the players who should continue. "It's an ongoing talk with him and his people. "Also, we have to recall that he's going to the African Nations Cup and won't be back until February 12, so there's a lot to decide. "But his professionalism and integrity will never be in question, regardless with what happens with his contract." Another player whose long-term Chelsea future has been called into question is Frank Lampard. Drogba's fellow 33-year-old was dropped for Tuesday night's game, proving he was no longer a guaranteed starter in the club's biggest matches. Lampard has been heavily linked with a move to the Los Angeles Galaxy, as a possible replacement for David Beckham. Villas-Boas insisted any link had not come from the Chelsea end and backed Lampard to fight for his place in the side. "Everybody is challenging for a place, and the competition is the same for Lamps as them all," he said. "They all deserve credit and, for sure, things will turn round for him."
