Liverpool are closely keeping tabs on Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante ahead of a possible summer transfer move, according to Football Insider.
Kante’s contract expires at Stamford Bridge at the end of the season and the online news portal claims that the France International has been locked in negotiations with the West Londoners for some time over an extension to his current deal.
It was reported last few months that the 31-year-old was no closer to signing an extension with Chelsea, so he could be available on a free transfer at the end of the season. This alerted Liverpool who are keen on bolstering their midfield options.
Kante has been hampered by injuries for the past few seasons and is yet to feature consistently for Chelsea this season. He has made only two appearances for Graham Potter’s side who are likely to miss out on Champions League football next season following their 2-0 defeat to London rivals Tottenham on Sunday.
The former Leicester midfield enforcer recently resumed light training with his teammates and is expected to feature for the first team soon. Despite bringing in Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez on January transfer deadline day in a record £107m deal from Benfica, his influence has been sorely missed by Chelsea.
Reinforcement
Liverpool are expected to be one of the busiest sides in the summer transfer window as Jurgen Klopp looks to reshape the engine room that has brought him success during his stay at the club.
The Reds have been linked with a host of midfielders including Jude Bellingham, Sofyan Amrabat, Matheus Nunes, and Ryan Gravenberch but Kante could represent a cheaper option and could be a shrewd signing for the club.
According to Football Insider, Chelsea consider Kante talks a top priority, and is believed that the club are in advanced talks with the Frenchman over a new one-year deal with an option for a further 12 months.
Paris Saint-Germain are also said to be interested in signing Kante in the summer and will have to battle Liverpool for his signature if he refuses to sign the new deal.
Kante is valued at just £26m by Transfermarkt but Liverpool will have to pay more to lure Chelsea into selling one of their best midfielders at the end of the season.
Read more: Report: Jurgen Klopp wants Liverpool to sign £71m star, already considering offer
