With the new Premier League season fast approaching, The Scout assesses the potential of the top-flight's new arrivals in Fantasy Premier League this season.
The acquisition of N'Golo Kante is a clear signal of intent from Chelsea.
After struggling in the defence of their crown, the 2014/15 champions have moved quickly in a bid to return to the top.
Installing Antonio Conte at the helm, the Blues have also prised a key component from Leicester City's own title-winning side, with Kante's arrival sparking immediate interest from Fantasy Premier League managers.
The £5.0m midfielder is already found in 22.9% of squads - only West Ham United's Dimitri Payet and former team-mate Riyad Mahrez have proved more popular so far.
Nonetheless, the combative Frenchman may struggle to reward such investment.
Kante's remit is to screen the defence, wreck the flow of opponents' attacks and seize possession to release attacking players. Arguably, he was peerless in that role last season.
No midfielder made more tackles (175) or claimed more interceptions (157); Kante's contribution to Leicester's resilience, amounting to 15 clean sheets, cannot be understated.
But a single goal and four assists meant that Kante produced a modest 108-point tally. That suggests he is unlikely to have a major impact as an FPL asset at his new surrounds.
Instead, it is the Frenchman's influence on the Chelsea backline that warrants attention.
The Blues kept nine clean sheets last season, with only three arriving at Stamford Bridge, having previously claimed 17 on their way to winning the title in 2014/15.
Kante's arrival could now revive the Chelsea rearguard and this unquestionably raises the appeal of Cesar Azpilicueta (£6.0m) - a likely mainstay in Conte's line-up.
Currently owned by 13.9% of FPL managers, the Spaniard had his best season for attacking points last time out, registering two goals and five assists.
Should he maintain that output he will prove a vital FPL acquisition should Chelsea rekindle their former strength at the back.
Branislav Ivanovic (£6.0m) provides an alternative, though last season's form could put him under pressure early on.
There is also some uncertainty surrounding skipper John Terry (£5.5m). He offers a cheaper route into Conte's defence but Kurt Zouma’s (£5.5m) return to fitness will challenge his starting role.
That doubt leads FPL managers to look to Azpilicueta, with Kante's substantial influence a key factor in the potential on offer.
