N'Golo Kante is reportedly contemplating whether to accept the offer of a new contract at Chelsea.
The France international now has less than six months remaining on his existing terms at Stamford Bridge, where he has plied his trade since 2016.
With the midfielder not making an appearance since the second weekend of the season due to a hamstring injury and subsequent surgery, there has been a growing feeling that the Blues will take the opportunity to reduce their wage bill.
If Chelsea were to try to negotiate a new deal with the 31-year-old, negotiations were expected to remain on hold until the player proves his fitness.
However, according to Footmercato, the relevant parties have already been involved in extensive discussions regarding a fresh contract.
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The report claims that the Blues hierarchy have offered Kante a deal which is said to be marginally less in terms of a basic wage, but with further bonuses based on appearances.
Furthermore, it is suggested that any contract which is signed by Kante will run to 2026, either as a straight deal or one which comes with a 12-month option.
Kante, who is said to want to remain in London, is now taking his time to consider the proposal with the view of making a decision within the next few days.
Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, who have just signed Cristiano Ronaldo, are allegedly waiting in the wings should Kante opt to end his stint at Chelsea.
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The alleged development comes at a time when Chelsea are reportedly keen on securing a deal for Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who has a £106m release clause.
As it stands, negotiations have stalled as a consequence of Chelsea failing to meet those demands, instead preferring to spread any payment across a number of instalments.
Kante's teammate Jorginho is in an identical situation with regards to his contractual situation, the Italian currently in a position where he can discuss a future free transfer to a foreign club.
Chelsea also possess an option to sign Denis Zakaria from Juventus on a permanent basis in the summer, something which has become more likely of late with the Switzerland international now viewed as a first-choice option in Graham Potter's midfield.
Andrey Santos is on the brink of signing for Chelsea from Vasco da Gama, although the 18-year-old is not expected to immediately challenge for a spot in the senior ranks.
