Arsenal are reportedly plotting an audacious move for N’Golo Kante, with the Chelsea midfielder entering the final year of his deal with the Blues.
According to Daily Star, Arsenal are plotting an audacious move for N’Golo Kante, who has entered the final year of his Chelsea contract. The French midfield general has recently been marred with injury problems and continues to attract big-name clubs.
N’Golo Kante has been one of the best players in the world since breaking into the Leicester City team that lifted the Premier League title in the 2015/16 season. The French midfielder has since won the league title with Chelsea while laying his hands on the UEFA Europa League, the UEFA Champions League and FIFA World Cup trophies, among other honours.
Chelsea were considering offering him a new contract and breaking away from their policy for players over 30 years of age. Alternatively, according to certain reports, they have considered selling him if the right offer arrives this summer. With a year left on his existing deal, it may not be difficult for the Blues to part ways with the 31-year-old.
Manchester United have been interested in the Frenchman, but since Erik ten Hag’s arrival, their focus remains on Frenkie de Jong as their primary midfield target. Signing Kante does make sense for the Red Devils as they need to bring in a proper defensive midfielder.
But Mikel Arteta is also looking at signing a new defensive midfielder this summer. The Arsenal manager feels the need to add depth in the position, and the links with Kante suggest the Gunners want an experienced head. Thomas Partey and Albert Sambi Lokonga can cover the position for now, with the former the first-choice starter in the holding midfield position.
However, someone like Kante could provide the necessary depth and bring his tremendous big-game experience. Arsenal are interested in Lille’s Amadou Onana, with the 22-year-old occupying the same position on the pitch. However, Kante’s availability could be considered a market opportunity and the Gunners could prioritise signing the Chelsea midfield general.
Arsenal want to understand whether Chelsea are considering selling the midfielder. Moreover, the Gunners may also have to consider the fact that Kante is one of the highest-paid players at Stamford Bridge. Matching his salary could be another factor before the north Londoners decide on approaching Chelsea.
From a sporting angle, Kante could be a superb signing for Arsenal, who may also need to focus on their short-term goals. Bringing in an experienced player such as the Frenchman would allow Arteta to achieve immediate goals and stabilise his options before executing his long-term vision with young players.
For now, this story needs to be treated like a rumour, although football always surprises in the best possible way. There is no base to refute the links, but Arsenal will have to consider plenty of factors before making an offer to Chelsea and Kante.