N’Golo Kante is reluctant to accept Chelsea’s latest contract offer with the midfielder seeking a longer-term extension at Stamford Bridge.
Kante is out of contract at the end of the season and Chelsea have been in negotiations with the 31-year-old’s representatives over a new deal. The west Londoners have submitted a proposal of a two-year contract with an option for a further season, but the Frenchman is understood to want a longer deal.
According to the Evening Standard, Kante is reluctant to accept Chelsea’s current terms and is demanding a three-year contract, with the option of a fourth season. The dispute leaves Kante’s future in doubt and the midfielder can leave as a free agent this summer if new terms are not agreed.
The France international has endured torrid season with fitness issues and has made just two appearances in the Premier League.
It continues a poor recent record with injuries – a factor in Chelsea’s negotiation stance – with Kante having not made more than 24 league starts in a season since the 2018/19 campaign.
Chelsea are understood to be in ‘advanced talks’ with Thiago Silva over a new contract, in a deal that will see the veteran defender pass his 39th birthday at the club. Discussions also continue with Mason Mount, who has 18 months remaining on his current deal and wants a new contract that reflects his importance to the side.
The 24-year-old has won Chelsea’s Player of the Season accolade in each of the last two campaigns and Liverpool are understood to be monitoring his situation.
