FRANK LAMPARD is already scuppering Derby’s transfer plans as Chelsea enter a tug-of-war over defender Todd Kane.
The 25-year-old right-back, who impressed on loan at Hull City last season, is out of contract this summer.
And, according to The Times, Derby aimed to sign Kane this summer following Lampard’s recommendation.
But the Chelsea legend now looks set to replace Maurizio Sarri as manager at Stamford Bridge.
As revealed by SunSport, Lampard is set for talks this week with Blues owner Roman Abramovich on his £380million yacht, Eclipse, off St Tropez.
Kane has never featured for Chelsea’s first-team despite being at the club for 18 years.
He rejected the offer of a new contract and will be a free agent this summer after allowing his three-year deal to run down.
But with Lampard set to take the helm, Kane may now change his mind with the former midfielder showing faith in youth at Pride Park.
Despite Sarri’s departure for Juventus this week, Chelsea are yet to agree a deal with Derby.
Rams owner Mel Morris said: “We’ve made it clear to everyone, but most importantly to Frank, that we want to retain him for the long term.
“If Chelsea want to hire him, then they have to make an offer in pursuit of that.
“Meantime, we’ll continue to put our best foot forward to continue with our plans for the coming season and work with Frank for him to know how much he’s wanted by everyone associated with the club.”
Derby want £4m for the remaining two years of Lampard’s contract if he goes.
