There is a “serious chance” that Chelsea might lose key midfielder N’Golo Kante on a free transfer at the end of the season amid difficult contract negotiations, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 33-year-old has yet to feature for the Blues since August due to a hamstring injury.
This is obviously a problem considering new manager Graham Potter has not had the opportunity to use such an important player.
Kante’s injury problems may also affect the ongoing talks over a potential contract extension as the France international is now in the final year of his contract.
An earlier report from 90min suggests that Potter is even open to letting Kante leave the club.
Romano, on the other hand, suggests that a new deal is still a possibility, but a summer exit looks more and more likely.
“I’m told there’s still nothing advanced between him and any club,” the Italian journalist told Caught Offside.
“He’s happy in London, but negotiations with Chelsea are not easy, so he has serious chances to leave on a free transfer.
“Barcelona are always informed about potential free agents, Kante included; but it’s not an advanced negotiation yet.”
Obviously, it is not exactly financially sensible to offer reportedly one of the club’s highest-paid players a new contract considering his injury records in the last few years.
This, however, would also mean the club would have to sign a replacement, which might prove costly.
Prior to his injury, the former Leicester City midfielder was arguably one of the club’s best performers at the start of the season. It is obvious he still offers a lot to the team when fit.
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