Chelsea are poised to sign Derby County midfielder Max Bird, according to Todofichajes.com. The Spanish website claims to have sources close to the deal which say the Blues will pay €5.5m (£4.8m) for the 19-year-old.

Manager Frank Lampard is believed to be the driving force behind the transfer, having made an “express request” after having worked with the player at the Rams during his single campaign in charge at the Championship club.

Bird made his league debut under Lampard, replacing Mason Mount in a 2-1 win over Swansea in December 2018. He was given his full debut against Aston Villa just a few months later.

This campaign, under Philip Cocu, the holding midfield player has made 18 senior appearances, having established himself as a regular first-team starter at the beginning of this year.

If the signing of Bird is confirmed, the teenager won’t be able to play for Chelsea straight away, with it not yet been confirmed when the next transfer window will open.

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