MONTPELLIER, France - English champions Chelsea are buying a world class player in Michael Essien, Ivory coast striker Didier Drogba said on Tuesday.

Ghana midfielder Essien, 22, is expected to join Drogba at the London club from Olympique Lyon on a 38-million-euro, five-year deal after undergoing a medical.

"With Michael, we have more chance to go all the way in the Champions League and to retain our national title," Drogba told reporters at an Ivory Coast training session for a friendly against France on Wednesday.

"It's very good for us."

Drogba, who joined Chelsea from Olympique Marseille last season for a 33 million euros, said coach Jose Mourinho had made the right choice in signing Essien.

"I like him a lot. I've talked a lot with him over the phone and he told me he was desperate to join us," he said.

"It's going to be a big relief in the midfield. He's one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.

"And so far, Chelsea have not made any mistakes on the transfer market," added Drogba.