3 potential successors to N’Golo Kante at Chelsea

A revolution is underway at Chelsea. From the change in ownership after Roman Abramovich put the club up for sale to the need for new blood in the squad, changes are happening rapidly.

It’s quite clear that Thomas Tuchel’s side could have a new-look aura before the start of next season.

For Chelsea, the current pressing matter is to replace the aging members of the squad. A few of the “senior players” are on a downward trajectory because of fitness issues and a drop in form. Inspirational midfielder N’Golo Kante is among them.

The once unrelenting engine of the team has now puffed out of energy. Kante has struggled with injury issues and doesn’t seem the super-energetic machine he was a few seasons ago. Chelsea will soon have to look for a life beyond the Frenchman if they crave long-term success. So let’s look at the 3 potential successors to Kante at Chelsea.

Wilfred N’Didi to Chelsea?

Wilfred N’Didi was basically signed as the replacement for N’Golo Kante by Leicester a year after they sold the Frenchman. Since arriving at the club in 2017, N’Didi has been on an upward trajectory with the Foxes and proved himself an ideal fit for Brendan Rodgers’ side.

As per WhoScored, N’Didi’s strongest assets are his tackling ability, ball interception skills, and ability to win aerial duels. These are basically the ideal skillset for a hard-working, efficient defensive midfielder for any prominent side.

N’Didi has been a breath of fresh air in Leicester’s midfield this season, averaging 3.2 tackles and 2.2 interceptions per 90 minutes for the Foxes. The Nigerian midfielder possesses raw strength, energy, and an excellent game-reading ability – making him the ideal successor to Kante for Chelsea.

How would Aurelian Tchouameni look in Blue?

If Chelsea are really looking for the long-term successor of Kante, what better than to pick a fellow Frenchman? France’s impressive production of exciting new talent has seen the emergence of midfielder Aurelian Tchouameni from their domestic league.

The 22-year-old has made 47 appearances for club and country this season. He helped France win the UEFA Nations League last season and has emerged as one of the most exciting young midfielders to come out of the country.

According to WhoScored, Tchouameni’s strength, tackling ability and interception skills make him a real firecracker of a defensive midfielder. The best thing about the 22-year-old is that his best years are ahead of him. If Chelsea wants to replace Kante with a similar vibrant, energetic, passionate midfielder, Tchouameni’s a great option to solidi their long-term future.

Ruben Neves to Stamford Bridge?

If Chelsea are really intent on finding a replacement for Kante from the Premier League itself, there are a few options. A prime option would be Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves, who has steadily, but surely, gained a reputation as one of the EPL’s most talented midfielders.

Unlike the other players mentioned above, Neves isn’t only a “play destroyer” or someone who only protects the backline. His creative edge would make him a daunting threat for any side. In 28 Premier League appearances this season, the Portuguese midfielder has 4 goals and 2 assists.

And he is by no means inefficient defensively. Neves has managed an average of 2.3 tackles and 1.3 interceptions in league play this season, tormenting opponents with his smart ball-winning and pressing ability.

The 25-year-old is nearing the peak of his career and is valued at just £36m (as per Transfermarkt) – making him a valuable option as a long-term replacement for Kante.