Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has revealed they tried to complete a deal for Hakim Ziyech in January.

The 26-year-old midfielder is set to join the Blues at the end of the season after the club agreed a £37million deal with Ajax.

“We tried and it was not possible," the Blues boss told Sky Sports. "We all know how the January window works.

"You respect clubs that have top players want to keep them and that was the case. But that is done and we have him for next season. Pleased with that.

"This season, we've come up against him twice so I know a lot about him," added Lampard. "He has a great left foot, plays generally off the right-hand side but can play in behind the frontman as well.

"When you look at us this season, there have been games where we've maybe struggled to unlock the door and he's certainly a player who we hope can bring that bit of creativity.

"He will be something different for us so we're excited. I know he's not coming in now but I think it's exciting for us as a club and for the fans to know that he'll be here next year."