Football News: Chelsea makes progress in N'Golo Kante contract talks

N'Golo Kante, a French midfielder for Chelsea, has reportedly made significant headway in negotiations for a new contract. With just over six months remaining on his current contract, the 31-year-old can begin pre-contract negotiations with overseas teams in January.

Kante's future is unknown as a result of his ongoing fitness issues over the past couple of years, and Barcelona is reportedly stepping up their efforts to recruit him for the upcoming season.

According to a recent report, the France international was pressuring the Blaugrana to extend him a contract, while Saudi Arabian powerhouses Al-Nassr are also reportedly interested in a transfer.

The Athletic believes that negotiations with Chelsea over new terms have advanced, and the Blues are now more hopeful that he will sign a contract shortly. Kante was previously reported to have been dissatisfied with the length of a prior Chelsea deal, which included a two-year extension with the possibility of an additional 12 months.

The report further states that the duration of Kante's new contract is still a barrier because the former Leicester City player was instead seeking a fixed three-year term and rejected that offer as a result.

Although Kante is regarded as a "very popular" part of the team, there is alleged to have been constructive communication between the player and the club. Chelsea has never wanted Kante to leave.

Despite Kante's ongoing challenges to stay injury-free, clubs in both France and the Premier League are reportedly keeping a close eye on developments in addition to Barcelona and Al-Nassr.

The 2022-23 Premier League and World Cup champion has only made two appearances this season due to a hamstring injury, and after having surgery two months ago, he is anticipated to be sidelined until February.

After departing Leicester at the conclusion of their 2015-16 title-winning season, Kante has made 262 appearances for Chelsea while healthy, making 13 goals and 15 assists for the Blues.

The 31-year-old played for Graham Potter's team and won the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, Club World Cup, Europa League, and UEFA Super Cup, but he was unable to compete in the 2022 World Cup because of a hamstring injury.

Jorginho, Kante's partner in the midfield, could also become a free agent in the summer, but the West London giants have reportedly made a contract offer, according to the Italian's agent.

Even if Kante and Jorginho agree to new contracts, Chelsea may be looking to add a star midfielder in 2023 and have reportedly shown a willingness to exercise Enzo Fernandez's £105 million release clause from Benfica.

Vasco da Gama starlet Andrey Santos is expected to join Potter's team in January, although the 18-year-old will probably be sent out right away. Meanwhile, the signing of 20-year-old Ivorian attacker David Datro Fofana from Molde was revealed on Thursday..

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