Frank Lampard's approach to sign young Chelsea defender Ethan Ampadu was rejected in the summer, according to reports from TalkSPORT.

Lampard, who made over 640 appearances for the Premier League side in his playing days, went back to his old stomping ground in the summer to lure other young prospects Mason Mount and Fikayo Tomori to Pride Park, both on season-long loan deals.

But Ampadu, who put in an outstanding performance for Wales in their victory over the Republic of Ireland on Thursday night, is reportedly highly rated by Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri, and rebuffed Lampard's efforts to land the 17-year old.

Ampadu has made 7 senior appearances for Chelsea since his arrival from League Two outfit Exeter City in 2017, and definitely looks to be one for the future.

Derby have made a fine start to their Championship campaign, winning four out of their first six league games.

The Verdict

There is no doubt that Ampadu has got a magnificent future ahead of him, his performance against the Republic of Ireland on Thursday night was fantastic, typified when he ran through the Irish midfield and set up Aaron Ramsey to score Wales' third goal of the evening.

Many would believe that under Lampard's guidance, a season in the Championship with a potential playoff push could have been beneficial for his development.