Reports have claimed that N’golo Kante is aiming to return to action for Chelsea by the end of February.
According to L’Equipe, the France international hopes to be back from his hamstring problems as soon as next month.
It has been a campaign which is yet to get properly started for the 31-year-old.
In just the second game of the season, Kante was forced off injured against Tottenham, with him yet to be seen since.
The Blues have suffered in midfield since, even despite the emergence of Denis Zakaria as a genuine option after the season got back underway.
Nevertheless, even the Switzerland international is now sidelined after suffering an injury against Fulham.
The injury to Kante has resulted in new manager Graham Potter being unable to utilise the extremely crucial midfielder this season.
Kante aiming to be back next month
However, L’Equipe have reported that he could be in for a boost for the final few months of the season, with Kante targeting a return.
The Frenchman’s future is currently unclear. His contract is set to expire at the end of the campaign alongside midfield partner Jorginho.
There is a reported confidence amongst the club that he will extend his stay, adding to his legendary seven-year career at Stamford Bridge so far.
However, the Blues have been pushing to sign a midfielder this month, safe in the knowledge that their options may be limited next season.
They have made attempts to sign Enzo Fernandez, although Benfica are seemingly irritated by Chelsea’s attempts to secure his services for less than his release clause.
Moises Caicedo is another name they have been targeting, with them perhaps seeing him as the heir to Kante. However, Brighton’s valuation to let him go this month is likely to put them off a January move.