Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is eager to push through a deal for Derby County youngster Max Bird.
The Daily Express says Lampard is reportedly close to completing his second summer signing with a bid of £4.8million to sign Bird from Derby.
Lampard handed Bird his league debut during his time in charge at Derby last season with the young midfielder emerging as a first-team regular under Philip Cocu this campaign.
He has been tipped as a future Derby captain, but there has also been speculation of a potential move to the Premier League.
It's clear Lampard holds Bird in high regard as he praised the Derby player for his development during his year in charge of the Championship club.
"He stands out as a young man. He is very polite with everyone, has a real desire to improve and he's a good team-mate," said Lampard when asked about Bird at the end of last season.
"Whether it has been for the youth teams or when he has been with the first team, he is an all-rounder."