Chelsea FC’s leading all time goal scorer Frank Lampard is set to sign for Melbourne City ahead of the 2014-15 Hyundai A-League season.
Reports from the Daily Mirror in England suggest that Melbourne City have secured Lampard’s signature on a short-term deal, similar to that of World Cup winner David Villa.
Like the Spaniard, Lampard is set to join the City Group as apart of their New York franchise and will feature in the A-League until the Major League Soccer season commences in March next year.
With an announcement imminent, Lampard could be re-united with former Chelsea teammate Damien Duff who also signed for Manchester City’s Australian based side on a one-year deal.
The 36-year-old is expected to arrive in Melbourne after a disappointing 2014 FIFA World Cup campaign, which saw him lead a young England side in their final group stage match against Costa Rica which ended in a goalless draw.
Former Socceroo and Chelsea goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer told The Mirror that he had spoken to Lampard about life in Melbourne.
“All I can say is that he did ask me about Melbourne Heart [now Melbourne City FC]. He did ask me what Melbourne was like and what Melbourne Heart was like,” Schwarzer said.
“I said Sydney was the best place to live. But I spoke very highly of Melbourne. I actually love Melbourne. It’s a great city. I told him how passionate in particular the Victorians are with their sport.
“There is huge potential in the game in Australia and it would be unbelievable if he went to Australia. I said to him that he would love living there. It’s a great place to live.
“He walked away with that and I know what he’s like. So we will see.”
Lampard scored 211 goals for the Chelsea as their all-time leading goal scorer and won three Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Europa League, four FA Cups, two League Cups, and two Community Shields during 648 games at Stamford Bridge.