Chelsea star N'Golo Kante wants to commit his future to the club by signing a new long-term contract at Stamford Bridge, but the hierarchy are unwilling to meet his demands, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The defensive midfielder joined the west Londoners in a £30million switch from Leicester City six years ago, but there are serious concerns over whether he will leave at the end of the season.

GiveMeSport The Verdict

What's the latest news involving Kante?

According to The Athletic, Chelsea have been holding conversations over a new contract with Kante since last year and the previous regime proposed a three-year deal - plus the option of a fourth - prior to all negotiations halting when the UK government imposed sanctions on then-owner Roman Abramovich.

But the report suggests the new hierarchy, led by Todd Boehly, have made a verbal offer to renew Kante’s deal for two years - with the option of adding a third - and the 53-cap France international is unwilling to accept the proposal.

Time is running out for Chelsea to tie Kante down to fresh terms as his current contract, which is worth £290,000-per-week, is due to expire next summer.

The 31-year-old has endured a slow start to the season, only appearing in the opening two clashes with Everton and Tottenham Hotspur.

Kante has been unavailable since picking up a hamstring injury during the derby against Spurs, with the problem forcing him to be substituted.

What has Simon Phillips said about Kante?

Phillips understands there is currently a contract stand-off involving Kante and Chelsea as the club do not want to meet his demands of a long-term deal.

The journalist is aware that some of Europe's biggest clubs are queueing up to acquire the Frenchman's services.

Phillips told GIVEMESPORT: "Obviously, with Kante, the injury track record is a real problem. Chelsea want to give him a new contract, but they don't want to give him a long-term contract.

"His people and his agents are saying that they only really want a long-term contract, so there's a situation there to be sorted out.

"There's other clubs interested and making enquiries. PSG is the biggest one and Juventus, as well, are knocking on the door. There are a lot of clubs lining up to take him as a free agent and prepared to give him more of a contract that he wants."

Should Chelsea meet Kante's demands?

There is no doubt that Kante has been a huge success during his time at Chelsea, winning six pieces of silverware including the Premier League title and Champions League.

However, he has missed more than 70 fixtures due to various injuries and that will be of huge concern to the Blues as they mull over whether to table a lucrative contract.

Chelsea boss Graham Potter, who was only appointed earlier this month, would benefit from Kante's tireless performances when available but it may be the right time to move onto other options.