Arsenal are considering a shock approach to sign Chelsea midfielder, The Daily Star reports.
The Gunners are eyeing a quality midfielder this summer, and they have already been linked with multiple names including Leicester City’s Youri Tielemans.
According to The Daily Star, the north London giants are now weighing up a surprise move for Kante, who has entered the final year of his Chelsea contract.
Kante has been a superb performer for the Blues over six seasons, but the Gunners are hoping to prise him away if a potential opportunity arises for them.
When Kante was at Leicester City six years ago, Arsenal was first linked with him, but they ultimately decided to buy Granit Xhaka from Borussia Monchengladbach.
They are now being encouraged to make an approach after a number of years. Kante is still among the finest in the field, but his reliability has been called into doubt.
He is no longer at the height of his profession at the age of 31, and he has a long list of ailments. He missed at least 16 competitive games last season because of injury.
Therefore, he won’t be a successful business partner for Mikel Arteta. He might do well for the team for one or two seasons, but he might not be a long-term option.
Meanwhile, he would also command hefty wages in the process. After the recent struggles of Willian, the Gunners are better off avoiding a move for the Frenchman.
A deal for Tielemans seems more worthwhile for Arsenal. He is not only a defensive midfielder, but can also operate higher up and is capable of making goal contributions.
The 25-year-old could be available for £30 million this summer, and would be value for money with his better offensive attributes and the peak years of his career ahead.
Arsenal need to make a formal move for the Belgian before rivals step up their interest.