N’Golo Kante, 25, is set to remain in the Premier League.
The French midfielder will, however, turn his back on last season’s champions, Leicester City, and move to Chelsea once Euro 2016 is over.
Kante is this summer’s hottest property with Manchester United, Arsenal, Paris St. Germain and Real Madrid all rivalling the Blues for his signature. The midfielder has steadfastly maintained that he will not make a decision until he has completed his international duties but news leaked that he prefers a move to the London club.
New Chelsea manager, Antonio Conte, has impressed with the tactical displays of his Italian side at Euro 2016 and Kante’s hard-working efficiency will suit the Blues next season.
For Leicester, it is disappointing news. They have successfully fought off Arsenal’s interest in Jamie Vardy, 29, and hoped that an improved contract offer would tempt Kante into staying at the King Power.
They were prepared for the outcome, signing Nampalys Mendy, 24, from Nice earlier in the summer. Attention will now turn to Algerian international winger Riyad Mahrez, 25, who, despite immediately declaring his allegiance to the newly-crowned Premier League champions, was vaguer over his future at a recent promotional event in Paris.
If the Foxes only lose Kante of their star players, Claudio Ranieri may consider it a good summer.
Read all transfer ins and outs, completed deals visit football transfer news.