Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kante has been linked with a transfer to Manchester United this week.
United will look to sign a specialist defensive midfielder this summer and Kante certainly fits that profile. Erik ten Hag is making plans for his rebuild of the club and the Dutchman is expected to make multiple new signings in the coming months.
It's been reported that United are considering a move for Kante as part of that summer overhaul of the squad. Kante's contract at Stamford Bridge expires in the summer of 2023 and it's believed Thomas Tuchel wants to freshen his midfield.
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Kante has long been one of Europe's finest defensive midfielders. The Frenchman has notably won two Premier League titles, the Champions League and the World Cup during his career and he's remained a key player for Chelsea this season.
The 31-year-old made 42 appearances for Chelsea this term and he's been asked about his future throughout the campaign. Here's everything Kante has said when asked about his future this season, ahead of a potential switch to Old Trafford this summer.
June 2021
Kante was quizzed on his long-term future last summer and he told reporters that he wasn't focussing on the matter.
“I have been at Chelsea for 5 years, I have enjoyed wonderful seasons. I hope to experience many others," Kante said. "It is not something that I am focusing on. I have another two years of contract with Chelsea and I feel good.”
March 2022
Kante has always held his cards close to his chest when asked about his future and he adopted that approach again two months ago. "Since I came here I’ve spent many great seasons, with the team, the managers and the fans," Kante told reporters.
"I hope we can carry on like this, keep winning, and that’s the way I see the future.”
May 2022
However, with Kante now about to head into the final year of his contract with Chelsea, he admitted he would consider his options. "The only thing is sure that I have one more year and the only thing is to finish this season," Kante said.
"I’ll think about it at the right time."
United are expected to sign a centre-back, a defensive midfielder and a centre-forward this summer.
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