Former Premier League star N'Golo Kante is reportedly now in talks for a stunning return to European football.
The France international departed Chelsea to join Saudi Pro League outfit Al Ittihad last year, but according to Relevo, a move to LALIGA giants Atletico Madrid may now be on the cards for the veteran defensive midfielder.
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After some dazzling performances at the 2024 UEFA European Championship to help Les Bleus reach the semi-finals of the tournament, the 33-year-old showed he is still able to compete on the largest stages of world football.
As such, the Spanish outfit is claimed to have made the Frenchman a target to bolster their midfield, with negotiations believed to already be underway.
Atletico have already enhanced their squad with the signings of Julian Alvarez from Manchester City, Alexander Sorloth from Villarreal and defender Robin Le Normand was purchased from Real Sociedad.
Los Colchoneros also appeared to be on the verge of signing Chelsea star Conor Gallagher, but that move is said to now be in doubt after the deal for striker Samu Omorodion to leave the LaLiga side for the Blues collapsed. The English midfielder has now reportedly returned to England, having travelled to the Spanish capital a few days ago to complete the switch.
Now, it seems Diego Simeone's side have shifted their focus to another midfielder in the form of Kante, with it being claimed the LALIGA club is looking for a midfielder with a profile the 33-year-old happens to fit.
It is understood Atletico are aware that getting Kante out of Saudi Arabia will be a challenge due to the high salary he is currently earning, and no deal has been struck as yet, with the SPL club believed to have little intention of selling the player.
However, it has been suggested that talks have already been initiated and no possibilities have been ruled out.
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Kante has extensive European football experience, having represented French clubs US Boulogne and SM Caen before moving to England, where he played for Leicester City and Chelsea, winning the Premier League title with both sides.