Kante picked up a hamstring injury with France during the international break just gone and has missed Chelsea’s last two games.
The Blues have struggled in the 26-year-old’s absence, losing to Crystal Palace 2-1 over the weekend and following it up with a 3-3 Champions League draw at home to Roma.
The former Leicester midfielder is expected to miss the next two league outings against Watford and Bournemouth, as well as a Carabao Cup visit of Everton.
But Conte is hopeful of having Kante back in action for their crucial home game with Manchester United on November 5.
The Chelsea manager admits he could even return to match fitness before the end of the month for their reverse Group C fixture in Rome.
Conte said: "I hope to have Kante back before the international break, he is progressing well – the scan was better than before.
“N’Golo has started to work, not with the group, but to get himself fit.
"He could be an option (For Roma or Manchester United). If Kante is available I will be very happy."
