This archive report was first published on 1 July 2019.
Former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard is on the cusp of returning to Stamford Bridge, with Derby County excusing him from pre-season training to allow for talks with the Blues.
According to a statement from Derby, Lampard has been given time off to conclude discussions regarding a potential move to Chelsea, where he won 13 trophies in 13 years as a player.
"Derby County Football Club has excused Frank Lampard from reporting back for pre-season training on Monday and Tuesday to allow his discussions regarding a potential move to Chelsea to be concluded as soon as possible," the statement read.
Chelsea have been seeking a new manager since Maurizio Sarri departed to take charge of Juventus last month.
