Real Madrid are reportedly plotting a cut-price deal for Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante this summer.

The France international, 31, has established himself as one of the world’s best defensive midfielders during five seasons with the Blues but is approaching the final year of his current contract.

Having won virtually all there is to win in England while with Chelsea and Leicester, the tireless No7 has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.

And with the West London club facing so much uncertainty as their efforts to find a new owner continue, the World Cup winner may fancy a new challenge elsewhere.

That could come by heading to Spain with Real Madrid, who Sport claim have Kante on their list of transfer targets.

Their No1 choice in defensive midfield is thought to be Aurelien Tchouameni but Monaco are expected to demand a seismic fee for the 22-year-old.

Fellow France international Kante could be a much cheaper alternative for Carlo Ancelotti’s men, with Chelsea knowing this summer could be their final chance to demand a fee — providing he does not extend his stay in West London.

It is also believed Paris Saint-Germain have a long-standing interest in the 52-cap international, who was born in the French capital.

In other news

Kante’s team-mate Andreas Christensen has reached an agreement in principle to join Barcelona, according to Football Insider.

The Mail on Sunday say Newcastle are considering selling star winger Allan Saint-Maximin for £50million this summer, with Aston Villa among clubs interested.

Liverpool striker Divock Origi is close to agreeing a four-year contract with AC Milan, say Calciomercato.