Frank Lampard has signed a contract with Chelsea as he closes in on a dream return to Stamford Bridge.

That's according to reporter Pete O'Rourke who revealed on Twitter that an agreement has been finalised between the Derby boss and the Europa League winners.

It's a move that has been widely expected to happen since Maurizio Sarri left for Juventus and the Rams confirmed on their website this morning that they had given Lampard today and tomorrow off as he spoke to the Premier League side.

Given the update, it suggests an announcement could be imminent and it will spell the end of Lampard's time at Pride Park after just a year.

He took the east Midlands side to the play-offs in his first full season as a manager, with the side impressing with their attacking play. However, the campaign ended in disappointment as Derby lost 2-1 to Aston Villa in the play-off final at Wembley in May.

Yet, the chance to move to Chelsea appears too goo to turn down for Lampard, who is the Londoners all-time top scorer.

The Verdict

It is now a matter of time before this moves go through and the update from O'Rourke suggests that it's all complete now.

From Derby's view they will be gutted to lose Lampard after just one season but everyone knows what Chelsea means to him and they simply can't stop him taking his dream job.

They should also take encouragement that a top side are interested in their manager.

Ultimately though, they need this sorted as soon as possible with pre-season upon us and they will hope to have a replacement lined up to take over once Lampard's departure is confirmed.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.