Archr-rivals make beeline for Chelsea star with fast expiring contract

Arsenal contact representatives of Chelsea star N’Golo Kante ahead of the summer transfer window

Premier League leaders Arsenal have made contact with the camp of Chelsea superstar N’Golo Kante as they attempt to sign the midfielder in the upcoming summer transfer window.

This is according to Le Parisien, (h/t Daily Mail) who claim that the Gunners have been interested in the French international since January. Despite continued discussions with the midfielder, Chelsea have not yet extended Kante’s contract, which is due to expire at the end of the current campaign (Transfermarkt).

Additionally, there has been an increase in interest for the midfielder, with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain among the suitors. Arsenal signed Blues star Jorginho last summer and the Italian has been handed a new lease of life at The Emirates. Surely we can do without strengthening a direct rival once again.

Kante recently returned to action after missing most of the season due to a knee injury. The former Leicester City player has appeared in only four Premier League games so far this season. In his first game back after his injury against Liverpool, Kante gave the impression that he had never been out. Despite his age, he remains a solid option in the middle of the park.

While it is thought that Chelsea extending his contract is the most likely conclusion. Earlier reports said that the 32-year-old was considering a transfer to Arsenal because he wanted to stay in London. The Blues view Kante as a crucial member of the team, and talks to extend his deal are ongoing.

He still represents a valuable player for the Blues and adds a wealth of expertise to Chelsea’s midfield, so the club has to extend his contract until we find his replacement.

If we don’t renew his contract before the conclusion of the season, we risk losing him for nothing because other teams are already interested in signing him. Kante and Denis Zakaria are the only holding midfielders we have, while Arsenal possess Thomas Partey and Jorginho, and Mohamed Elneny who isn’t a regular starter.

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However, the team ought to only provide him with a short-term deal because he is in his mid-30s and Chelsea should pursue additional defensive midfielders in the summer. Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo are two players, the Blues are keen on signing.