Arsenal lodged an enquiry for Chelsea icon N’Golo Kante as the Frenchman attempts to come to a decision over his future.
The midfielder is out of contract at the end of the season with talks yet to be held over a renewal to his current terms. Kante is currently available for discussions with overseas clubs regarding a free transfer but it appears there is interest on domestic shores.
Arsenal have been linked with a move for the two-time Premier League champion in the past and according to a member of his entourage, the Gunners have already got in touch regarding a deal. However, they also revealed that the midfielder would prefer to stay at Stamford Bridge.
An unnamed spokesperson told French outlet Le Parisien : “N’Golo would like to continue his career in London, where he has his habits. He liked working with Antonio Conte, but he has been sacked by Tottenham.
“Arsenal also made an enquiry… I think he will extend his deal at Chelsea before going to the Middle-East in two or three years.”
Kante, now 32, has endured an injury-hit campaign in West London. He has made just four appearances throughout the campaign thus far having struggled with various knee and hamstring injuries.
Would N'Golo Kante be a good signing for Chelsea? Have your say in the comments below
The Frenchman has made his return to the Chelsea squad over recent weeks after captaining the Blues in the 0-0 draw with Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. He was also named in the starting line-up for Wednesday evening’s Champions League quarter-final first-leg against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
His inclusion meant that Kante’s four previous appearances for the club had come under different managers - those being Frank Lampard, Bruno Saltor, Graham Potter and Thomas Tuchel. Amid doubts over his future, the former Brighton boss previously stayed tight-lipped on any talks and reaffirmed his commitment to getting Kante playing again.
Speaking in December, Potter said: “My focus is just to get him back fit as soon as possible. Everyone knows his quality, it’s just getting back on the pitch playing football.”
Since arriving at Chelsea from Leicester for £30m back in 2016, Kante has gone on to make 265 appearances for the club. During his time at Stamford Bridge, he has claimed the Champions League, Europa League, Premier League and FA Cup - as well as a host of other pieces of silverware.
Should he move to Arsenal then he would join former teammate Jorginho. The Italian completed a £13m move to the Emirates in January and is immediately playing a key role in a battle for the Premier League crown.
He has made nine appearances for the Gunners so far and was vital in a key victory against Aston Villa back in February.
