Mourinho willing to play the waiting game as he dreams of being reunited with Lampard
By Sportsmail Reporter
Updated: 06:50 EDT, 17 July 2008
Jose Mourinho is prepared to wait until the final day of the transfer window to make Frank Lampard an Inter Milan player.
The former Chelsea manager is determined to team up again with the England midfielder but has suggested he won't be rushed into making a move for a player with whom he claims to have 'an unforgettable relationship'.
Old pals act: Jose Mourinho is determined to rekindle his 'unforgettable relationship' with Frank Lampard.
Mourinho said: 'The transfer window is open until August 31 and we need a midfielder. Lampard is at Chelsea, but I have worked really well with him.'
Speaking at Inter's first day back for pre-season training, he added: 'I worked with Frank for three-and-a-half years, there is an unforgettable relationship.
'But in this moment I respect players and their clubs.'
Inter believe Brazilian striker Adriano could be key to securing Lampard Cech claims disenchanted midfielder Lampard is staying at Chelsea
Why I love Frank: he's the best I've ever worked with, says Mourinho
The Mirror reported that Lampard is poised to tell Chelsea chiefs he wants to end his seven-year association with the club in order to be reunited with the Portuguese Special One.
Lampard improved out of all recognition under Mourinho as Chelsea won back-to-back Premier League titles in 2004 and 2005.
Inter have seen at least two bids for his services dismissed by Chelsea, who insist they are not willing to discuss a transfer with the Italian giants.
It means Lampard is set to leave Chelsea for nothing next summer if the deadlock is not broken by the end of August.
Mourinho, however, has hinted that the issue will be resolved by then.
Mourinho plays the waiting game as he dreams of being reunited with Lampard