Chelsea open contract talks with young defender

Chelsea have reportedly negotiating a new long-term deal with defender Fikayo Tomori shortly after David Luiz's shock departure to Premier League rivals Arsenal.

Luiz made the surprise switch across London to join the Gunners on deadline day and that meant Tomori's prospects of linking up with Everton on loan were scuppered.

According to Evening Standard, the west London giants are now planning to discuss a new contract with Tomori, who is expected to play a meaningful role during the 2019/2020 season.

Blues boss Lampard has placed the emphasis on utilising the club's young players amid the transfer ban and the likes of Reece James, Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham are also due to be handed with regular gametime.

Chelsea begin their league campaign with an away trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United on Sunday and Lampard is likely to field Kurt Zouma and Andreas Christensen at the heart of the defence.