In a recent report, Sport stated that Barcelona are eager to move in for Al-Ittihad midfielder N’Golo Kante this summer. It has been claimed that the Catalan are showing interest in signing the France international in this transfer window.
Kante’s Decent Form For Both His Club And Country
Kante had a decent campaign at the Saudi club as he put in a lot of impressive displays at the heart of their midfield. The 33-year-old scored four goals and picked up six assists in 44 appearances for Al-Ittihad last season across all fronts.
The French midfield ace managed to impress while representing his nation recently based on his average of 2.0 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 0.8 clearances, 0.8 shots, 1.7 key passes and 0.7 dribbles per game in the UEFA Euro 2024. He was even tidy with his ball distribution after making 89.7% of his attempted passes in the European competition (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Al-Ittihad will expire in the summer of 2026 which could make it tough for Barca to sign him on the cheap later this year.
Should Barcelona Boss Hansi Flick Recruit Kante This Summer?
Kante is a tough-tackling midfielder who can make the odd interception for his team in the middle of the park. He usually clears the danger when the opposition are on the front foot.
The France international can even strike the ball with venom from long range and has got the eye to create some meaningful openings for his teammates in the final third. He is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also serve as a box-to-box midfielder if asked to do so.
Kante would add more bite and steel to Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick’s midfield. He has got the experience and winning mindset to help the Catalan club compete for a few major silverware in the future.
At 33, Kante has still got a few good years left in him to play at his best. Thus, it makes sense for Barca to try and recruit him before the start of the new campaign. However, he won’t be a long-term fix to the Catalan club‘s midfield concerns. Still, Flick would be wise to get him on board soon.
