Barcelona midfield target expected to sign extension deal with Chelsea – Romano

N’Golo Kante was arguably the biggest name on Barcelona’s list as a possible reinforcement for the defensive midfield position.

With Sergio Busquets’ future at the club uncertain, the Frenchman was seen as a like-for-like replacement for the veteran, and more importantly, one available at a budget price.

According to reports from Fabrizio Romano, the Barcelona target is progressing in talks with Chelsea over a possible renewal. There is optimism from both parties to get the deal done, and all that remains to be decided is the length of the contract.

Though the midfielder was linked to a plethora of clubs, including Barcelona and PSG, the Italian journalist maintains that a renewal in London was always his priority. His love for the Blues has accelerated the process, and only final details remain to be agreed upon.

Kante’s signing was seen as a massive opportunity in Catalonia given his contractual situation. The Frenchman has less than five months left on his deal with England, and his availability as a free agent in the summer tempted Barcelona into his pursuit.

In addition to his contract ending, Kante’s consistency as one of the world’s best defensive midfielders was a major factor in making him a target for Joan Laporta.

Notably, however, he has missed a significant part of the ongoing season through injury and only recently returned to training under Graham Potter.

With Kante’s name off the table, it remains to be seen as to whom Barcelona target as a replacement for the possibly departing Busquets. Martin Zubimendi and Ilkay Gundogan are amongst the names proposed, and the latter seems to be better placed than the La Liga midfielder.

In recent days, the idea of Busquets renewing for another season has grown into the Blaugrana offices, especially with a Lionel Messi return on the cards. Only time will tell whether the latest development will have any impact on Barcelona’s transfer plans for the department.