Frank Lampard has disclosed that Hakim Ziyech was one of the top targets in the just ended January transfer window but Ajax were unwilling to lose their talisman as they chase success in the local and international front.

Chelsea signed the Moroccan International on Thursday for £33.3m and will move to Stamford Bridge at the end of the season. The Blues failed to add up to their youthful squad in January and according to the former player, they tried to acquire the services of the 26-year old but the Dutch side were not willing to let go.

"We tried but it wasn't possible. We all know how the January window works.

"You respect that clubs who have top players want to keep them. But that's done and now we have him for next season."

Ziyech is the first signing Chelsea have made since Lampard became head coach in the summer, and he hinted there could be more to follow at the end of the campaign.

"We have to worry first about where we're at," he said. "Trying to come in the top four is the priority for us so my main concern is that.

"But we're always on the lookout and we're always working together to see how we can improve. Those improvements could be needed maybe in the summer and we'll try to make sure we get the right ones."

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Lampard has praised Ziyech’s productive ability and is confident that his presence next season could help break down defenses and add much more innovation to his side’s quality.

 "I think he's a fantastic player.

"He first came into my eye-line in their [Ajax's] run in the Champions League last year. I thought he was one of their standout players, particularly in their games against Tottenham.

"We've come up against them twice this season so I know a lot about him. I know about his qualities. He's got a great left foot and plays generally off the right-hand side but can play behind the front man.

"Probably when you look at us this season there have been games where we may have maybe struggled to unlock the door. He's certainly a player we hope can bring that bit of creativity and something different for us.

"He scores goals, assists. I know it's not coming now but I think it's exciting for us as a club and the fans to know that he'll be here next year."