Chelsea: N’Golo Kante ‘close’ to agreeing new contract

Chloe Chadwick 6 March 2023, 19:11 2 minutes read

Stamford Bridge, London, Britain - April 24, 2022. Chelsea's N'Golo Kante applauds fans after the match.

Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante is ‘close’ to agreeing a new contract at Stamford Bridge, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Uncertain future

The Frenchman’s deal in SW6 is set to expire at the end of the season, and having not yet put pen to paper on fresh terms, has been linked with an exit.

Paris Saint-Germain and Premier League rivals Liverpool have both been credited with an interest in the 31-year-old amid uncertainty surrounding his future.

The Blues star, however, is believed to be happy with how negotiations have progressed behind the scenes and is keen to extend his stay working under Graham Potter.

The Latest: Kante set to sign

Taking to Twitter, Romano revealed that Kante is expected to sign on the dotted line, whilst also providing updates on the futures of Raheem Sterling and Mason Mount. He wrote:

“Raheem Sterling wants to stay at Chelsea, the plan is very clear for the summer – committed to the project, nothing has changed despite rumours.

“Contract talks with Mason Mount are in stand-by; Kante wants to stay and final details of new deal are close to being agreed.”

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The Verdict: Fully deserved

Kante has been dubbed a ‘Rolls Royce’ by journalist Josh Bunting being Chelsea’s second longest-serving player behind Cesar Azpilicueta, so a new contract would be fully deserved.

The Adidas-sponsored ace was averaging 2.5 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per top-flight game prior to his injury, via WhoScored, but is also a threat in the final third.

The Paris native has posted 28 goal contributions during his time in the capital and currently ranks in the 99th percentile for most progressive carries by midfielders in the top five European leagues.

Kante has been key to Chelsea’s success over the years having won six trophies since joining and the chances of that number increasing will only get better should he extend his stay.