Chelsea confirm contract talks with Frank Lampard

Chelsea have admitted they are in talks with Frank Lampard over a new Stamford Bridge deal.

There has been much speculation this season that the 34-year-old would not be offered a new contract when his current one expires this summer, and he has been linked with moves to China and America, as well as a switch to Premier League rivals, Manchester United.

But it now appears the west London side are prepared to perform a U-turn and will seek to keep the midfield star who has scored 199 goals for the Blues and is close to becoming the club's all-time leading goalscorer, needing just three more to equal Bobby Tambling’s total of 202.

Chief executive Ron Gourlay, speaking in Bangkok to promote the club's summer tour of the Far East, confirmed: “Discussions are ongoing and must be kept confidential at this stage.”