Chelsea are focusing on bringing in new signings whilst looking to hold on to key players already at Stamford Bridge. The Blues have already signed David Datro Fofana and Benoit Badiashile in the January transfer window.
Todd Boehly has already tied down Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah and Armando Broja to long-term deals since completing a £4.25billion takeover at Chelsea. The west London outfit are continuing negotiations with Mason Mount after talks paused during the World Cup.
N'Golo Kante's future is also being discussed by the club, with Graham Potter hoping to keep the France international at the club with the player also keen on staying at Stamford Bridge. Kante has not yet played under Potter after suffering a hamstring injury in August, before aggravating the issue in December with him set to be out until March.
READ MORE: Graham Potter faces £60m problem as Jamie Carragher criticises Chelsea star that 'can't defend'
Italian news outlet Foot Mercato report that after months of negotiations, Chelsea are nearing an agreement with the French midfielder over a contract extension. Kante had been linked with a move away from west London, with Barcelona and Al-Nassr both keen on signing the 31-year-old. But now the Blues are waiting on the French international's response following their contract offer.
Kante's contract at the London club is set to expire this summer meaning he is free to negotiate a pre-contract with clubs from abroad. Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal have also been linked to Kante, who is thought to be happy in London and has set his sights on remaining in the capital.
After months of stalemate and with negotiations seemingly at a dead-end, Chelsea have now made Kante an offer that is closer to the player’s demands. The salary being offered is closer to what the French midfielder is currently earning with different bonuses linked to appearances.
The report reveals that his new deal could run until 2026 with Chelsea hoping to conclude negotiations. The midfielder is said to have asked for a few days to consider the deal before deciding what is best for his career, as he continues to recover from injury.
READ NEXT:
Every word Graham Potter said on Enzo Fernandez Chelsea transfer, Sterling, Pulisic, Aubameyang
Chelsea player ratings vs Man City as Carney Chukwuemeka impresses, Denis Zakaria stakes claim
Four things learned in Chelsea vs Man City as Graham Potter shows crucial change amid injuries
Secret Todd Boehly transfer hands Graham Potter solution amid Chelsea interest in Enzo Fernandez
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
