Al Wasl manager Diego Maradona has played down speculation that he is trying to sign Didier Drogba.

The Ivory Coast international is a free agent following his recent release from European Champions Chelsea.

Reports had claimed that former Argentina striker Maradona was hoping to lure the 34-year-old to Dubai.

However, Maradona does not believe that his club would be able to compete financially with Shanghai Shenhua, who are also said to be keen on Drogba's services.

"If we had a large budget, yes it is possible to attract someone like Drogba. But I don't think the budget in mind is available here," Maradona told Gulfnews.com.

"I've read a lot about Drogba's future and I've come to believe he's on the verge of signing for that Chinese team who have offered him millions. I don't think we can match those figures.

"[Having] Drogba at Al Wasl is a dream and if it does come true it will be the best thing ever."

Drogba is expected to make a decision on his future over the coming weeks.