Atletico Madrid have reportedly opened talks with N'Golo Kante's camp following stumbling blocks in negotiating Conor Gallagher's transfer deal.
The Blues midfielder was set to complete his Chelsea exit after being informed he would not be a regular starter in Enzo Maresca's new project.
The Englishman has been in the Spanish capital for the past five days, ready to finalise the deal, and the Spaniards were also eager to sign him.
However, the deal is currently on hold. Gallagher will return to London on Tuesday night, while Atletico Madrid are now opening talks with Kante's brother over a return to Europe, as reported by Relevo.
The 33-year-old Frenchman is currently under contract with Saudi side Al-Ittihad until 2026 but is expected to be available at a much lower price than Gallagher.
The reports emerge after it was revealed that Conor Gallagher will fly back to London due to negotiation difficulties between the two parties
Following a successful Euro 2024 with France on a personal level, it is no wonder that Kante has gained attention, with Mail Sport previously reporting that West Ham were also interested in bringing him back to Europe.
The Hammers, under their new coach Julen Lopetegui, saw their £15m opening bid rejected by the Frenchman's side, which insisted the player is not for sale.
The 33-year-old was said to be happy competing for Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittihad - playing alongside Karim Benzema, Fabinho and newcomer Moussa Diaby - but Relevo report that the midfielder would be happy to wear Atletico's shirt.
After making several signings for their attacking line, such as Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth, Los Colchoneros are set to strengthen their midfield.
However, the obstacle could be Kante's wage, which has increased significantly since his move to Saudi Arabia, with Atletico currently facing financial issues due to their latest deals.
Reports about the Al-Ittihad midfielder emerged after Gallagher's deal shock U-turn.
In order to afford the Chelsea academy product, the Spanish side would need to sell several players, including perhaps youngster Samu Omorodion.
Omorodion's deal has also seemingly collapsed and Chelsea expressed interest in their former player, Joao Felix, who is set to leave the club due to a reportedly trying relationship with Atletico coach Diego Simeone.
Kante has featured 44 times for Al-Ittihad, scoring four goals and providing six assists to his team-mates.