Chelsea in talks to sign Championship starlet

Chelsea have reportedly joined Manchester United in the race to sign Birmingham City midfielder Jude Bellingham in the summer transfer window.

The 16-year-old is regarded as one of the best young talents in England and he was recently spotted at United's training ground where he met with executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward.

As a result, the Red Devils have emerged as favourites to sign the versatile midfielder but it appears that they could face competition from Frank Lampard's side.

Lampard has offered opportunities to a number of young club graduates over the course of the current campaign and as per Manchester Evening News, the 41-year-old has urged the Blues to make an attempt to land the youngster.

Bellingham has made nearly 30 appearances for Birmingham City in the Championship. He has contributed four goals and two assists in the process while playing in different midfield and attacking positions.

The youngster has yet to sign a professional contract with the Blues but that is likely to happen when he turns 17 at the end of June. The Championship side are set to demand a £30m package for his sale.