Chelsea to open talks with Frank Lampard

Summary 'I would expect things to move pretty quickly from here; certainly before the end of this week, Lampard is expected to be in post as the new Chelsea manager The 41-year-old is in line to replace Maurizio Sarri after the Italian returned to his homeland with Juventus. A Derby statement said: "Derby County Football Club can confirm that they have granted permission for Chelsea Football Club to speak to Frank Lampard about the vacant managerial position at Stamford Bridge. "With pre-season fast approaching for both clubs, it is hoped this will allow Chelsea to swiftly conclude their discussions. "The club will make no further comment until it is appropriate to do so." Lampard was appointed as Derby boss last summer and enjoyed an impressive debut season in management, leading the club to the Sky Bet Championship play-off final where they lost 2-1 to Aston Villa.