Chelsea are close to agreeing a new contract with N’Golo Kante, as talks have progressed recently with the midfielder. His current deal is set to run out at the end of the season, when he will be able to walk out as a free agent.

The West London club are keen to extend his deal, but need to find an agreement over the length of the contract. His duration of stay is proving to be the main barrier to the extension. There are a few more details that need to be ironed out as well for the Frenchman to stay at Stamford Bridge.

N’Golo Kante contract talks currently in positive situation

Chelsea are progressing in talks with N’Golo Kanté over new deal — there’s optimism to get it done, still waiting to decide on length of the contract. 🔵 #CFC

Kanté’s priority has always been to stay as he loves Chelsea — key factor in the negotiation, waiting on final details. pic.twitter.com/KgV6HXIMUQ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 22, 2023

The 2018 World Cup winner will turn 32 at the end of March, and his fitness is proving to be an issue for the club to deal with. He has missed the majority of the season due to a hamstring issue, with repeated setbacks pushing his return date back.

As of now, he has returned to training and is expected to join the first team in the coming weeks. Kante could be back on a Premier League pitch by the end of March, if his recovery goes according to plan. He will not be rushed back, given how long he has been out for and the seriousness of the injury.

N’Golo Kante’s fitness issues have been the main reason why the length of the contract is an obstacle in negotiations. However, he is very fond of the club and the culture there, and could yet decide to continue together by the end of the season.