Reports: Real Madrid interested in signing Leicester City's N'Golo Kante
Leicester City star N’Golo Kante has been unstoppable in the last 12 months and his impressive performances have also helped France win their first two games at Euro 2016. There are many admirers of the 25-year-old, and reports in Spain suggest Real Madrid could be next in the queue to sign him this summer. According to Spanish website El Confidencial, Real Madrid are considering a move for Kante following his brilliant performances for France at the Euros. The Spanish giants see Kante as an alternative to Paul Pogba, who is a much more expensive option.
Pogba is reportedly a primary transfer target for Real Madrid this summer, but his disappointing performances recently could turn Zinedine Zidane’s attention towards the Leicester City midfielder. The Juventus star was even dropped in the game against Albania, whilst Kante produced another incredible performance.
El Confidencial reckon Kante has no release clause in his contract, and shouldn’t cost more than €30m. There have been conflicting reports over the Frenchman having a release clause, and if he doesn’t have one, we really doubt Leicester would sell him for €30m.
Also read: N'Golo Kanté and Claudio Ranieri - Signings of this Premier League season
Pogba’s agent, Mino Raiola, is reportedly demanding a record transfer fee for his client, and that could work in Kante’s favour. Arsenal and Manchester United are also interested in Kante, but a move to Real Madrid should be very tempting, and Leicester’s hopes of keeping him beyond summer look extremely bleak.
Nampalys Mendy is a target for Leicester City
Meanwhile, it seems Leicester City are already looking preparing for Kante’s departure and have identified OGC Nice star Nampalys Mendy as his replacement. The Premier Champions have made a bid of €10m for Mendy but latest reports suggest they could face competition from other Premier League teams.
According to French newspaper L’Equipe, West Ham have made an offer of €15m for Mendy but haven't been able to convince the player, as he is keen on signing for Leicester. The Foxes also play in the Champions League next season and that should also be tempting for the 23-year-old.
The French midfielder has already played under Claudio Ranieri at AS Monaco and reports suggest both are very much keen on a reunion. OGC Nice are very likely to sell the player this summer, who has just one year left on his contract, or risk losing him on a free transfer next summer.
Mendy was in impressive form for Nice this season and played all 38 league games for his team. The player is in the mould of Kante, and could be a ready-made replacement for him.