Derby have given Chelsea permission to speak to Frank Lampard about becoming their new manager.
Chelsea's record goalscorer is the favourite to succeed Maurizio Sarri who left for Juventus earlier this month.
Lampard guided Derby to the Championship play-off final in his first season in management.
Chelsea will have to pay the Rams four-million pounds in compensation if a deal is completed to see the former England midfielder take the manager's role at Stamford Bridge.
Derby have released a short statement to confirm that they've given the green light for Chelsea to approach their boss.
Derby County can confirm that they have granted permission for Chelsea to speak to Frank Lampard about the vacant managerial position at Stamford Bridge.
— Derby County (@dcfcofficial) June 25, 2019
"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."
If Lampard takes the Chelsea job he'll have to deal with a two window transfer ban, though the club are currently appealing FIFA's sanction to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
