Though different players, Chelsea management are convinced the Barcelona star can spark Avram Grant's team in the second-half of the season in the absence of Drogba, who will leave next month for Ivory Coast's African Nations Cup campaign.

DiarioSport says knee concerns for Drogba has also convinced Abramovich to press ahead with a January bid for the Brazilian.

Chelsea's football staff are united behind Abramovich's bid, with former Barcelona coach Henk ten Cate convinced a move to London will re-ignite Ronaldinho and bring out the best in the former World Player of the Year.