Lampard happy with win but will not confirm Mendy move

Frank Lampard refused to confirm Chelsea are set to finalise the signing of Edouard Mendy following the Blues’ win at Brighton.

Mendy is close to completing a move from Rennes but Lampard would not confirm the goalkeeper has completed a medical.

The Blues boss said: “I can’t confirm that. That’s news to me. I’ve been preparing for the game.

“I’m certainly not going to be led (to comment) on any players from other teams.”

Chelsea began their season with a 3-1 victory, although Kepa Arrizabalaga allowed Leandro Tossard’s long-range shot past him for a Brighton equaliser in the second half.

The error will inevitably fuel speculation that Kepa faces being replaced.

But Lampard said: “I need to see the goal back. I haven’t seen it at close quarters. I’ll watch it later.”

It was a very good night for Chelsea, who gave debuts to new signings Timo Werner and Kai Havertz.

“We showed a lot of good stuff,” said Lampard.

“It wasn’t where we want to be in the end – that will take a bit of time.

“The first game of the season is about getting a win.”

He added: “I was really pleased with Timo. I know the qualities he’s going to bring to the team.

“He’s going to be a real threat. He’s a very mobile centre-forward who can do so many things for us.”