Reports: Sven-Goran Eriksson wants Frank Lampard to join Guangzhou R&F

Frank Lampard: China bound?

Sven Goran Eriksson has expressed his desire to sign his former star, Frank Lampard for his club Guangzhou R & F. The veteran was released by Chelsea, at the end of the season, thus bringing to an end his illustrious career at Stamford Bridge, where he scored 211 goals in 648 appearances. Lampard, who rose to prominence at the international level under Eriksson, is currently contemplating an offer from New York City FC, who recently signed David Villa from Atletico Madrid.

The Swede has already urged his bosses to table an offer for Lampard, who wants to continue playing at the highest level, for the next two to three seasons. Guangzhou have made rapid progress under the stewardship of Eriksson, and currently occupy the third spot in the Chinese League, and look set to qualify for the Asian Champions League.

Eriksson believes matching Lampard’s wages might prove to be a stumbling factor, but remains hopeful of signing the England international,

‘I have suggested to the club they take Frank Lampard,’ said Eriksson in an interview. He would be great in China, he is a football man, very proud and clever so if he thinks he can go on for another year or two, he will not go just for a holiday.

‘How many midfielders in the world have scored more goals than Lampard. He is still running, still scoring.

‘He is incredible and I am sure he’d be great around the camp. I have spoken to agents about it but the money is through the roof so I am not sure it can happen.’

The former England boss, who has been lauded for his brand of football, is largely tipped to replace Alain Perrin as the manager of the Chinese national side in the near future.