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Fenerbahce has finalized a landmark transfer deal with Saudi club Al-Ittihad, under which French star N'Golo Kante agreed to join the Istanbul side on a 2.5-year contract, waiving his unpaid €12 million ($13.96 million) salary in lieu of a transfer fee.
Fenerbahce executive Ertan Torunogullari confirmed the transfer on Wednesday evening upon his return from negotiations in Dubai. Speaking directly to fans at the stadium following Fenerbahce’s Türkiye Cup match, Torunogullari addressed speculation by saying, "No problem—he’s coming," when asked about the Kante transfer.
According to details from the negotiation, Kante's deal with Fenerbahce includes a yearly salary of €8 million, a steep reduction from the €25 million per year he was reportedly earning at Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad. His contract was already set to expire in June 2026, and the player did not seek an extension from the club.
Kante, who joined Al-Ittihad on a free transfer from Chelsea for the 2023–24 season, is believed to be motivated by his goal of returning to top-level European football ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that Kante prioritized a return to a competitive and physically demanding league, such as Türkiye’s Super Lig, over a more comfortable but less rigorous environment, Sabah daily reported.
The 34-year-old French midfielder, who was part of France's 2018 World Cup-winning squad, is reportedly aiming to be in contention for selection again.
This season, he has made 14 appearances and scored 1 goal.
N’Golo Kante, 34, is a French international midfielder renowned for his exceptional stamina, tactical intelligence, and ability to recover possession. He first gained international attention during the 2015–16 Premier League season, playing a pivotal role in Leicester City’s historic title win. His performances earned him a move to Chelsea in 2016, where he became a cornerstone of the squad under multiple managers.
During his seven-year spell at Chelsea, Kante won numerous domestic and international trophies, including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and UEFA Europa League. He was twice named Chelsea’s Player of the Year and earned widespread recognition for his consistency, humility, and team-first mentality.
Kante was also instrumental in France’s 2018 FIFA World Cup victory, forming a formidable midfield partnership with Paul Pogba. Despite a series of injury setbacks in later years, he remained a respected figure in both club and international football.
In 2023, Kante joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad on a free transfer after his Chelsea contract expired.
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