Barcelona have been linked with a move for N’Golo Kante, but they have now cooled interest in the Chelsea midfielder.
According to a report from MARCA, Barcelona have cooled their interest in signing Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante. The Blaugrana are looking to bring in a younger option now, with Ruben Neves on their radar.
The French International has reportedly been a target for the Catalan outfit as they look to replace club legend Sergio Busquets. However, it seems that they have decided to abandon their pursuit of the World Cup winner, who is now expected to renew his contract with Chelsea.
The 31-year-old is in the twilight years of his career, and he would have been an underwhelming replacement for an important figure like Busquets. Barcelona need to bring in someone who can sort out the defensive midfield role for the foreseeable future.
The French international’s contract with Chelsea expires at the end of the season. But he will likely sign a new deal soon. Chelsea are expected to lose Italian international Jorginho as a free agent at the end of the season, and they cannot afford to lose two key players on a free transfer in the same window. Holding on to Kante could prove to be a smart decision for the Blues.
The Frenchman has not been able to hit top form this season because of persistent injury problems, and it remains to be seen whether he can get back to his best. Despite the fact that he is 31, Kante is still a useful player. And Graham Potter will benefit from having a player of his experience and quality in the squad.
As for Barcelona, they have been linked with other Premier League midfielders like Ruben Neves. It remains to be seen whether the Catalan giants are prepared to make a move for the Portuguese international at the end of the season.
Busquets has been instrumental to their success over the last decade, and Barcelona must look to bring in a quality replacement for the Spanish international this summer. Neves would be a much better option compared to Kante.
