Chelsea 'planning N'Golo Kante contract talks amid Manchester United speculation'

Chelsea are reportedly keen to hand N'Golo Kante a contract extension at Stamford Bridge.

The France international has again been a vital player for the Blues this season, featuring on 40 occasions in all competitions, contributing two goals and five assists in the process.

The 31-year-old's current deal is due to expire next June, though, and there has recently been speculation surrounding his future, with Manchester United said to be interested in him.

A recent report claimed that incoming Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag believes that the World Cup winner is an attainable target this summer and will push for his signature.

However, according to journalist Ekrem Konur, Chelsea are planning to hold discussions with the midfielder over a contract extension.

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The report claims that the Blues are planning to offer Kante the chance to sign a new deal until June 2026, although there will not be able to be any firm movement until the club's ownership issues have been addressed.

Kante has contributed two goals and four assists in 24 Premier League appearances this season, but he has struggled with injury problems in 2021-22, leading to speculation that Thomas Tuchel's side could be prepared to let him leave.

The midfielder has represented Chelsea on 258 occasions since arriving from Leicester City in 2016, contributing 13 goals and 15 assists in the process, lifting the Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup during a successful spell.

Kante was only a substitute for Saturday's FA Cup final with Liverpool, though, being introduced in the 66th minute of the contest for Mateo Kovacic.

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Konur adds that Man United are keeping a close eye on the developments and will make a move if Kante is unable to agree a new deal at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea, once their takeover has been completed, are expected to bolster their midfield this summer, while Jorginho could also be on the move, as he continues to be linked with a return to Italy.

The Blues are also losing Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger on free transfers this summer, while the futures of Marcos Alonso and Cesar Azpilicueta are unclear, so Tuchel's side could be forced to overhaul their defence in the upcoming market.

Chelsea will take on Leicester City and Watford in their final two Premier League matches of the campaign, and the club are yet to secure a top-four position in the table.