Lampard plays down reports Milan want option to buy Tomori

Frank Lampard has played down reports that AC Milan want an option to buy Fikayo Tomori as part of any loan deal for the Chelsea defender.

Tomori has dropped down the pecking order of centre-backs at Stamford Bridge and the club are ready to let him leave on loan.

Reports have suggested that Milan are keen on him – and want to leave the door open for a permanent move at the end of the season.

However, Blues boss Lampard said “no detail” had been agreed, and added: “Those reports I’ve read as well, but they’re not to be confirmed.”

Lampard reiterated that England international Tomori is very much part of Chelsea’s long-term plans despite his lack of first-team action this season.

“Fikayo is a developing player,” Lampard said at a press conference on Monday afternoon.

“As a squad we had four centre-backs last year – I can’t play four in one game – and you try and find consistency at different times.

“Fikayo was in and later on not so much. Then this year we have five centre-backs, so the predicament is difficult for centre-backs who aren’t playing regularly.

“That’s why he may go out on loan for his development. He’s a young player and his development has been a huge rise in the last two or so seasons.

“That will continue and we’ll find the best path for that.”

Lampard also revealed that N’Golo Kante will miss Tuesday’s game against the Frenchman’s former club Leicester because he is still struggling with a hamstring problem.

Andreas Christensen has recovered from his recent knee injury and is in the squad.