According to recent reports, Chelsea and N’Golo Kante are getting closer to agreeing on a contract extension despite interest from rival clubs.
The Athletic has disclosed that after initial verbal negotiations proposed back in September proved unsuccessful, positive developments have been made between the club and the player. Kante’s current contract with Chelsea expires in the summer, giving other teams the opportunity to speak with him about a pre-contract starting on January 1.
Due to the Frenchman’s current contract situation, France and Spain in particular have expressed interest. Barcelona is the most recent club to be rumored to be close to making a proposal to sign the 31-year-old on a free transfer in the summer.
Another roadblock to negotiations was Kante’s hamstring injury, which could sideline him until March. However, recent events have led some to believe that things are looking up for the negotiations.
The length of the contract, however, is still an issue because Kante turned down Chelsea’s offer of two years with the possibility of a third in September.
According to reports, he prefers long-term security. The Blues, on the other hand, have always wanted the 2018 World Cup champion to stay because they consider him to be a legend and a very well-liked person at the club.
It’s unclear whether Chelsea will finalize a deal before Kante can start contract negotiations with other teams on January 1 because talks are still in their early stages and the length of the contract hasn’t been determined.
