Lampard squashes exit speculations surrounding key Chelsea star

Frank Lampard has no plans to sell N’Golo Kante

Speaking in a press conference (h/t Evening Standard), Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has confirmed that he has no intention of selling midfielder N’Golo Kante amid interest from Inter Milan.

Kante has been with Chelsea since 2016, having arrived from Leicester City. In his first season with the club, the Frenchman won the Premier League title, followed it up with an FA Cup triumph in the subsequent season, before winning the Europa League in 2018/19.

Having been a vital member of the team year after year, Kante endured a difficult 2019/20 campaign owing to injuries. This resulted in reduced game time for the diminutive midfielder under Lampard.

That, coupled with rumours of Chelsea’s interest in Declan Rice, have led to questions over Kante’s future at the club.

Inter Milan, managed by former Blues’ boss Antonio Conte, have emerged as suitors for the midfielder. However, Chelsea have shot down an offer from the Italian giants.

And now, Lampard has stressed that Kante remains a major part of his plans and will not be sold this summer. (h/t Evening Standard)

“He’s an incredible player and I certainly don’t want to lose him, no. He’s fundamental to what I’m trying to do. He’s a big deal to me and of course I want to keep N’Golo.”

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That is as definitive as it gets. Kante, despite his problems last season, is one of the best defensive midfielders in the game. The 29-year-old would walk into the starting XI of any club across Europe.

Given the attacking talent at our disposal, having someone like the Frenchman, who can do the dirty work in the middle of the park, will be critical.