In a recent print edition, Tuttosport revealed that Manchester United are set to rival Inter Milan in the race for Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante this summer. It is understood that the Red Devils are ‘on the trail’ for the experienced French international and could ‘easily satisfy’ Chelsea’s €60m price-tag for him during this summer transfer period (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness).
Kante’s Injury-Plagued Season At Stamford Bridge
The ex-Leicester City star was ravaged by multiple injuries which kept him out of several important matches during the previous campaign. However, Kante still managed to impress by putting in a series of energetic displays at the heart of Frank Lampard’s midfield over the past 12 months.
The 29-year-old appeared in 28 matches for the Blues last season, netting three goals and picking up five yellow cards across all fronts. He did well to contribute at both ends of the pitch after averaging 2.0 tackles, 2.0 interceptions, 1.4 clearances, 0.8 shots, 1.2 key passes and 1.1 dribbles per game in the 2019-20 Premier League campaign. The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner even distributed the ball relatively well as he completed 84.9% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
This summer could be Kante’s last chance to make a high-profile switch and play for another top team like Man United as father time is slowly but surely catching up with him. Maybe a potential move to Old Trafford could help him re-establish himself as one of the best players in European football.
What Will The French International Add To Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Side?
Kante can still be one of the best defensive midfielders in world football when he is playing with confidence on the field. However, frequent injuries have taken a toll on his body, but it hasn’t stopped him from providing adequate protection for his teammates at the back.
The 41-time French international is a brilliant tackler and can pull off some crucial interceptions when his team needs him to step up the most. He is also proficient at sensing the danger quickly that allows him to make a few necessary clearances when left exposed and outnumbered by the opposition in and around his penalty box.
Kante will add plenty of defensive stability and energy to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s midfield department if given a chance to prove his worth at the Theatre of Dreams in the upcoming campaign. He could be the perfect complement to Paul Pogba at the centre of the Man United midfield and will go a long way in addressing some of Solskjaer’s defensive headaches at Old Trafford. All in all, the Red Devils should consider splashing the cash for Kante this summer as he will help them close the gap to Liverpool and Manchester City at the summit of Premier League football in the coming seasons.
