Frank Lampard and Derby in contract talks as Chelsea drag heels over deal to replace Sarri

Derby have entered talks with Frank Lampard about extending his current deal, according to reports.

The 40-year-old looks set to be formally approached by Chelsea as Maurizio Sarri departs to take over at Juventus.

Lampard still has two years left on his current contract, but according to Sky Sports, Derby had always planned to discuss a new deal with him at the end of the season.

There has been no formal approach from Chelsea yet to discuss a move to take him to Stamford Bridge and the Rams are pushing ahead with their plans to build a structure around him.

The Chelsea hierarchy have identified Lampard as their top choice to replace Sarri, who has reportedly agreed terms with Juventus to become manager of the Turin club.

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However, Sarri will not be confirmed as manager of Juventus until Chelsea have finalised plans to bring in Lampard.

It is believed there is a clause in Lampard’s exisiting deal with the Rams that allows him to move – but the Championship side are demanding £4m in compensation.

Lampard is said to be very interested in the role but he is also respectful of Derby’s fans and the club’s owner, Mel Morris, who gave him his first chance as a manager.

Sky report that any club wishing to take him is required to pay £3.5m in compensation and the figure rises to £4m if the buying club is playing Champions League football.

Lampard spent 13 years at Stamford Bridge, winning three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, the Europa League, and Champions League, becoming the club’s all-time top goalscorer in the process.