LONDON, June 25 (Xinhua) -- Former player Frank Lampard looks set to be named as the new coach of Chelsea after his current club, Derby County confirmed on Tuesday they have given Chelsea permission to speak to him.
"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," confirmed the Derby County website.
41-year-old Lampard spent 13 years as a player with Chelsea, winning the Premier League three times, as well the FA Cup on four occasions, the Europa League and the Champions League.
He has been the favorite to replace Maurizio Sarri since it was confirmed the Italian would be leaving to join Juventus and would be a popular appointment among supporters despite his lack of coaching experience.
Lampard has only one season of first team coaching experience and last season led Derby into the Championship play-off final where they lost to Aston Villa. It is thought the second tier club has accepted an important offer of compensation to allow Chelsea to discuss terms with Lampard.
