Ngolo Kante is set for a £32 million move to Chelsea. The 25 year old endured a fantastic season for Leicester and was a vital part in their eventual title victory, furthermore he impressed in France's opening game against Romania in the Euros. Can Leicester cope without the man who averaged over 4 tackles a game!?
The Frenchman was the first player in Europe's top 5 leagues to reach 100 tackles last season, this was thanks to his persistent pressing in which he covered every blade of grass across the pitch. As well as his endless tackles and interceptions Kante was also capable further forwards, he possesses an excellent first touch and his pace allows him to drive at defences. As a result Kante got 4 assists to his name, but the deadly duo of Marhez and Vardy must also be credited.
Kante started each match in central midfield alongside Danny Drinkwater. The latter was tasked with playing delicate switching balls to the likes of Mahrez whilst Kante was focused on regaining possession. The 4-4-2 had become a somewhat outdated formation yet Kante's unbelievable fitness mixed with desire saw Leicester exceed everyone's expectations. However with Kante's departure to London imminent, many feel that Leicester's midfield may crumble and they will be exposed all too often. Additionally Mahrez is thought to want out of Leicester which may see them struggle for goals at the other end.
Who is Nampalys Mendy?
So far this summer Leicester have signed: Zieler, Luis Hernandez, Mendy and Musa. Nampalys Mendy arrived from Nice for a fee of £13 million and occupies the central midfield spot that Kante has left wide open thanks to his departure. Mendy is likely to start alongside Drinkwater in midfield, similarly to Kante he has a strong understanding of the game, is reasonably paced and has even been likened to Claude Makele. Mendy averaged 2 interceptions a game compared to Kante's 4, all the same Mendy should be a capable replacement for the Chelsea-bound Frenchman. However Kante was more than 'capable' for Leicester last season, he was their engine, thier most important player. Leicester will know the effect of losing such a key man and realise that Mendy is unlikely to fill the void the former has left.
What does the future hold for Riyad Mahrez?
The 2015/2016 PFA Player of the Season is thought to have rejected a new contract from Leicester and instead wants out. Having netted 17 times in addition to 11 assists, Mahrez would be an ideal winger for not only Premier League clubs but also further abroad. Arsenal, Chelsea and even Barcelona are thought to be interested in the 25 year old's services. The winger is valued at around £35 million thanks to his ability to beat the most experienced defenders with ease or deliver a wicked cross. If Mahrezx does follow Kante's trail, (a trail which seems to cover every blade of grass) then Leicester fans, Ranieri and most of all Jamie Vardy will be infuriated given the prospect of Champions League football could not keep their star players which were essential in their title campaign. I think Mahrez has set his sights on a dream move on Barcelona, as a result he doesn't appear in the predicted 2016/2017 team.
Prediction: 6th place
Top Scorer: Jamie Vardy
Player of the Season: Ahmed Musa
Young Player of the Season: Demerai Gray
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