N’Golo Kante makes Chelsea comeback amid “progressing” contract talks

The Frenchman is spending the last few months of his current Chelsea contract.

N’Golo Kante has returned to the pitch for Chelsea, making his comeback after a long-term spell on the sidelines.

A host of injury setbacks, including hamstring surgery in October, has prevented Kante from returning to action in the past 12 months.

The French midfielder was in Chelsea’s matchday squad for their draw against Everton just before the international break. However, Kante was able to make his first appearance under Graham Potter in a friendly match on Sunday.

The 31-year-old played for an hour as Chelsea lost 3-0 against the club’s development team in a behind-the-closed-door friendly at Cobham.

Kante’s fitness issues raised serious doubts over his future under Chelsea’s new ownership. However, negotiations in recent weeks seem to have turned the situation around.

According to Fabrizio Romano, talks between Kante and the club are “progressing well to the final stages”.

Potter is planning on integrating the experienced star into his side’s midfield line, convincing the club to offer him a new two-year deal. Chelsea will reportedly have an additional option to extend the year for another year next summer.

Kante will be available for selection when Chelsea take on Aston Villa in their first match after the international break.