Dream come true, Latest Football News - The New Paper
Football

Dream come true

Kante vows to achieve 'a lot of success' with new club Chelsea

N'Golo Kante insists his move from Leicester to Chelsea was "too good to turn down".

The France midfielder has turned his back on the Premier League champions to move to Stamford Bridge in a deal thought to be worth around £32 million ($57.4m).

Kante, who has signed a five-year contract with the Blues, was an integral part of Leicester's shock title success last season.

But, rather than staying on for their title defence, as well as play in the Champions League, the 25-year-old has opted to link up with new Chelsea boss Antonio Conte.

He told the Blues' official website: "I am so happy to have signed for one of the biggest clubs in Europe. It's a dream come true for me.

"The opportunity to work with Antonio Conte, a brilliant coach, and some of the best players in the world was simply too good to turn down.

"My first season in English football was very special and now I hope to achieve even more as a Chelsea player.

"I am looking forward to meeting up with my new teammates and helping the club achieve a lot of success."

Kante, signed for Leicester last summer from Caen for £5.6m, was a revelation during his maiden season in England.

He was named on the six-man shortlist for the PFA Players' Player of the Year award - won by Foxes teammate Riyad Mahrez - but his displays also brought him to the attention of Europe's biggest clubs.

Kante, who was also part of the France squad which finished runners-up to Portugal at Euro 2016, becomes the Blues' second summer signing after Belgium striker Michy Batshuayi.

Leicester recently secured top scorer Jamie Vardy on a new contract amid interest from Arsenal and tried to do the same with the Frenchman.

But the loss of Kante will be a major blow to their plans for next season, while Mahrez is also reportedly eyeing a move away as the team which stunned English football last season threatens to break up.

Chelsea are delighted with their purchase, with technical director Michael Emenalo saying: "N'Golo is a fantastic signing ahead of the new season and we are delighted to have been able to bring such a talented player to the club.

"He is a perfect fit in terms of Antonio Conte's philosophies and the style of football he wants to play.

"For a player of his age, he has already built up a wealth of experience and his exceptional quality will without doubt be a great addition to the team."

Former England striker Gary Lineker, who played for Leicester, believes Kante's arrival is a good omen for the Blues.

He tweeted: "Inevitably Kante has gone. Fancy Chelsea will now win the title. He's that good!" - PA Sport.

"The opportunity to work with Antonio Conte, a brilliant coach, and some of the best players in the world was simply too good to turn down."

- N’Golo Kante

english premier leaguechelseaN’Golo KanteAntonio Conte