Chelsea have reportedly opened preliminary talks with former Paris Saint-Germain boss Thomas Tuchel over replacing Frank Lampard as their next manager.

Tuchel has been out of work since being sacked by PSG in December, despite winning a clean sweep of domestic honours last season and guiding the club to the Champions League final.

The German coach is believed to be one of a number of possible contenders in the frame to succeed Lampard, who is under increasing pressure following a poor run of form.

According to former Premier League striker Jan Aage Fjortoft, Chelsea have already reached out to Tuchel's representatives to determine whether there is any interest.

Fjortoft wrote on Twitter: "Agents and Chelsea – representatives have been talking about bringing Tuchel in.

"I understand no decision has been made in terms of Lampard yet, but if he goes Tuchel is seen as the best replacement In the middle of the season."

Massimiliano Allegri, Julian Nagelsmann, Ralph Hasenhuttl and Brendan Rodgers have also been touted as candidates to take charge at Stamford Bridge.