Chelsea ramp up selling plans as star midfielder exit revelation emerges

Frank Lampard Chelsea TEAMtalk

Chelsea are ready to listen to offers for N’Golo Kante, whose recent absence is in fact down to the club wanting to see him leave, according to a report.

Kante has struggled with small injuries all season and has not featured in any of the Blues’ last four squads.

Boss Frank Lampard has previously outlined his admiration for the Frenchman, telling a press conference in June that he “would have loved” to play alongside him.

Indeed, the 29-year-old has proved vital for Chelsea in helping the club to two Premier League titles, the FA Cup and the Europa League.

Lampard most recently told the media that Kante would still not be fit for Sunday’s clash with Wolves.

According to Calciomercato, however, there is a deeper narrative to the midfielder’s recent absence.

The source claims that the “reality” is that Kante’s status among his peers has dropped considerably. In fact, Lampard no longer feels he is a vital part of the team and can leave if the right offer comes in.

The report does not mention a price, although Chelsea do reportedly have a growing need to sell.

They have signed Hakim Ziyech ahead of the new season and are allegedly nearing a deal for Kai Havertz. Such spending means balancing the books with sales is now the top priority.

What’s more, Inter Milan are reportedly keen but the Italian side have made no “official steps” over a move yet.

Chelsea and Inter have reportedly mentioned Kante’s name in talks over a deal to take Emerson Palmieri back to Serie A.

CHELSEA CHASING ATLETICO STAR?

Elsewhere, reports claim Chelsea are monitoring Atletico Madrid centre-back Jose Gimenez.

The Blues’ 5-3 defeat to Liverpool on Wednesday further highlighted their need for defensive reinforcements.

That result meant Lampard’s men have shipped 54 Premier League goals this season, the worst record in the top 10.

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