Chelsea have identified N’Golo Kante’s replacement as the Frenchman’s future at Stamford Bridge remains in doubt.

The Blues have picked former Manchester City midfielder Romeo Lavia as a replacement for Kante.

Kante’s contract at Stamford Bridge expires in June 2023 and the two parties are yet to agree on an extension.

Football Insider reports that it is unknown whether or not the France international would want to continue with the west London side who will not be playing in the Champions League next season.

French Ligue 1 giants PSG and Catalan giants Barcelona are among the clubs interested in the player.

Lavia, who now plays with Southampton, has emerged as a person of interest for the west London outfit.

Chelsea’s owners, according to the report, see Lavia as Enzo Fernandes’ ideal partner as the 19-year-old midfielder has emerged as one of the most promising midfielders in the Premier League this season.