Chelsea wants to move West Ham ’s England midfielder Rice as a direct replacement for Kante.
The England international, who was released by the Blues as a teenager, has emerged as one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League and Frank Lampard is reportedly keen on bringing the 21-year-old to Stamford Bridge to add to his growing contingent of England youngsters.
It is understood the Hammers would demand £70 million for Rice, but Chelsea could be boosted by the fact that Rice is close friends with Mason Mount.
There is also speculation that
Real Madrid are tracking Kante as they look to strengthen their midfield and have got the World Cup winning midfielder in their sights.Zinedine Zidane wants Kante, 29, as a long-term replacement for Luka Modric - and the Blues could turn to Rice if the World Cup winner decides to move on.