Chelsea star N’Golo Kante ‘want to sign preliminary contract with Barcelona in January as he seeks free transfer’

N’GOLO KANTE wants a preliminary contract with Barcelona in January as he eyes a free summer transfer, Spanish reports say.

But Barca are also considering his Chelsea team-mate Jorginho, Leicester’s Youri Tielemans and Real Sociedad star Martín Zubimendi.

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The Spanish giants have held talks with Kante officials.

And the 31-year-old Frenchman is hoping Nou camp bosses make a quick decision.

That’s because he has other options as he nears the end of his contract.

Juventus and Inter Milan have also been linked with the ex-Leicester hero.

But Kante’s fitness record this season could work against him.

He missed the World Cup with a hamstring injury sustained against Tottenham in August.

Sport say Barca see him as a proven, equal replacement should legend Sergio Busquets depart in the summer.

However, Zubimendi is reportedly high on Nou Camp boss Xavi’s wish list.

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Manchester United were also mentioned in connection with the 23-year-old last month amid claims they were ready to activate his £52million release clause at Sociedad.

And new Aston Villa boss Unai Emery is also hoping to tempt Zubimendi, whose contract runs until 2027.

Barca are also believed to have been monitoring Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan and Wolves captain Ruben Neves.