Journalist: Talks ‘broken down’ between club and Arsenal and Tottenham target

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Journalist Robin Bairner has told Give Me Sport that talks between Chelsea and N’Golo Kante over a new deal at Stamford Bridge have “broken down” – amid reports Arsenal and Tottenham could sign the 2018 World Cup winner.

Kante, 31, is out of the World Cup after undergoing hamstring surgery, which is likely to keep him out until February. He might also be out of contract soon after that, with the Chelsea star’s £290,000-a-week deal expiring next June.

Kante is now in his seventh season at Chelsea, in which he has clocked up a huge 262 appearances in all competitions. But a proneness to injury is more prominent, and there is debate surrounding whether he should be given a new one.

Foot Mercato report that Kante wants to remain in London regardless whether he signs a new deal at Chelsea, or not. They claim that Arsenal and Tottenham are possible destinations for the ex-Leicester star. Bairner gives an update.

“My understanding of the situation at the moment doesn’t vary from a lot of sources to be honest. Talks have broken down in terms of the length of contract being a sticking point. We’ve heard that Barcelona are interested in Kante.”

Kante talks broken down amid Tottenham and Arsenal reports

So, what is Kante’s best move? It seems as though remaining at Chelsea might not be the answer. Even if he does stay, does he start under Graham Potter? Chelsea have some of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic are two of the best the Premier League has to offer. But Kante’s future could depend on theirs. Jorginho, like Kante, is out of contract in June. Kovacic a year later, in 2024. Chelsea also have other options.

Mason Mount, Conor Gallagher, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and others. So, there are options and it might be that Potter looks to bring in his own players, too. Kante might not start as regularly as he did before his hamstring issues.

So, a move to Arsenal or Tottenham might actually suit Kante more. Spurs need depth in the middle of the park and it is likely he would suit Antonio Conte’s style. A reunion with the Spurs boss would be tempting.