Arsenal could strike N’Golo Kante deal as ‘shock approach’ reported – pundit
Noel Whelan has insisted Arsenal could strike a deal for Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante this summer “if the money is right”.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the Blues won’t want to lose out on any potential fee for the 31-year-old – who has less than 12 months left on his contract.
According to the Daily Star (9 July), Arsenal are plotting a “shock approach” for Kante with Mikel Arteta wanting more world-class midfield talent.
The World Cup winner made 26 appearances in the Premier League in the 2021-22 season – including 21 starts.
Whelan suggested Kante would be “very influential” at Arsenal despite his advancing years.
“There’s no doubt that he’s been one of the best defensive midfielders in the world for a long time now,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He’s been very successful at Chelsea. It’s strange to see him possibly heading towards the exit door when he is still so influential.
“Any deal can be struck if the money is right and Chelsea are willing to listen to the offer.
“If he’s not firmly in the plans of Tuchel then he is surplus to requirements with 12 months left, just as you’ve got Raheem Sterling leaving Man City.
“There has to be a certain turnaround and Chelsea won’t want to lose out on any potential fee they can get in.
“If Arsenal can get him in then he could be very influential for them.”
Arsenal have completed deals for Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira, Matt Turner and Marquinhos so far this summer.
The Gunners beat German side Nurnberg 5-3 in pre-season action on Friday (8 July).
In other news, Arsenal idol reacts as Ben White lambasted by Gabby Agbonlahor.