Chelsea star N'Golo Kante is facing an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge. The Frenchman's contract is set to expire at the end of June with the player and club yet to find an agreement during negotiations.
The 32-year-old has missed the majority of the 2022/23 campaign through injury after picking up a hamstring problem during the Blues' 2-2 draw against Tottenham in August. Kante missed the end of the season with a groin injury and may have already played his final game for Chelsea.
It has been reported that incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino wants to keep the French midfielder at the club next season as he looks to rebuild the squad and make major improvements at the club. Mateo Kovacic and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are expected to leave Stamford Bridge this summer meaning if Kante does leave, reinforcements will be needed.
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The 32-year-old was seen clapping supporters after the 1-1 draw against Newcastle on Sunday afternoon despite not featuring in the final fixture of the season. As Kante made his way around the pitch at Stamford Bridge, one fan shouted: "We will see you next season," in the direction of the Frenchman.
To which Kante responded: "We'll see." It would not have been the positive response supporters were hoping to hear as the Chelsea star did little to ease concerns that he could leave the club after a successful seven years in west London.
Manuel Ugarte has been linked with a move to Chelsea with reports suggesting a deal could be completed as early as this week. Pochettino will be keen to talk with Kante and try to convince him to extend his current deal with the Blues - maintaining an experienced core of a relatively young squad heading into next season.
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