Chelsea expect to have Frank Lampard behind his desk at Cobham by the beginning of next week.

The Sun says he will start work as Chelsea manager next week on a three-year deal worth £5.5million a year — the same as predecessor Maurizio Sarri.

Blues legend Lampard has found the prospect of leading the club where he played for 13 years too tempting to resist and Derby will not stand in his way.

The Rams yesterday gave permission for Chelsea to approach Lamps for discussions.

The first wave of Chelsea's first-team squad report back for pre-season training a week on Friday.

But Lampard will be at the club's training complex early next week to start the groundwork as the tenth permanent boss in 16 years to serve under owner Roman Abramovich.