Chelsea make contract decision on NGolo Kante

Chelsea have decided against renewing the contract of midfielder N'Golo Kante which expires in the summer of 2023.

The Frenchman has been a fantastic performer for the Blues over the past six years, but he appears set to leave the club next summer.

Kante has struggled with several injury concerns in recent years and the new owners are wary of handing him a new long-term deal.

Instead of keeping him, the London giants have their sights on landing a young defensive midfielder, who can provide long-term success.

Benfica's Enzo Fernandez is one of the players under consideration while West Ham United's Declan Rice continues to be linked as well.

Rice would be a perfect addition for the Blues with his vast Premier League experience. He could be available for a fee of around £70 million.

On the other hand, Fernandez will be more expensive. Benfica could hold out for the Argentine's £103m release clause amid big club interest.

Manchester United, Liverpool and Real Madrid are also watching him.