Derby County want Phillip Cocu to replace Frank Lampard once the current Rams boss is named as Chelsea's new manager.

The Europa League winners are on the lookout for a new boss after Maurizio Sarri left for Juventus and it has been widely reported that they will turn to their all-time leading scorer.

He enjoyed a fine first season in management with Derby that saw the side miss out on promotion to the Premier League in the play-off final.

Therefore, the east Midlands side will already be on the lookout for his replacement and the Sky Sports Transfer Centre (15:59) states that Cocu is the 'number one target' for the Championship outfit.

Despite that, they do add that the Dutch legend has reservations about joining the Rams due to the number of important players who have left Pride Park this summer after loan spells, including Harry Wilson, Fikayo Tomori and Mason Mount.

Yet, the report claims owner Mel Morris hopes to convince the ex-Barcelona player that he will be given time to build a squad capable of winning promotion.

Cocu has enjoyed a mixed managerial career to date, having won three Eredivisie titles in five years with PSV before struggling with Fenerbahce earlier this season, where he was sacked just four months into his role with the Turkish giants after a terrible start to the campaign.

The Verdict

This would be an ambitious move for Derby and one that would surely excite the fans when you consider Cocu's stature in the game.

Whilst his spell in Turkey would be a concern, he showed during his time with PSV that he can build an attractive, successful side when given enough time.

So, he would be a big appointment for a Championship side, although you do have to say that his concerns are valid as whoever takes over at Pride Park is going to have a big job on their hands given the players that have left.

Either way, the fans will be pleased to see the club are acting quickly to secure Lampard's successor.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.