Fenerbahce have secured the signing of N'Golo Kanté from Al-Ittihad after FIFA intervened to resolve an administrative error that initially derailed the deal. The transfer, which also involves Youssef En-Nesyri moving to the Saudi club, collapsed at the deadline due to issues with the Transfer Matching System. Kanté, eager to return to Europe, is now set to join the Turkish side.
The proposed transfer of France midfielder N'Golo Kanté, 34, from Al-Ittihad to Fenerbahce fell apart on deadline day because of an error in entering information into the FIFA Transfer Matching System by the Saudi Pro League club. Fenerbahce issued a statement asserting they had completed all requirements, including medical examinations for both Kanté and Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesyri, who was due to move in the opposite direction. "The transfer process involving Al Ittihad Club, N’Golo Kanté, and Youssef En-Nesyri has been meticulously managed by our club in line with our plans and with utmost care in all respects," the club said. They added that despite requesting an extension and holding discussions with FIFA, Al-Ittihad failed to finalize the transactions without justification.
FIFA's intervention on Tuesday allowed the deal to proceed even after the Saudi transfer window had closed, enabling En-Nesyri's move and clearing Kanté's registration in the Süper Lig. An announcement from Fenerbahce is expected soon. Kanté, whose contract with Al-Ittihad expires in the summer, had agreed personal terms with the Istanbul club and was prepared to fly there before the collapse. The Frenchman joined Al-Ittihad from Chelsea in 2023, following a distinguished career that included two Premier League titles—one with Leicester City in 2015-16 and another with Chelsea—plus the Champions League, Europa League, and FA Cup. His return to Europe is anticipated to bolster his chances of selection for France's 2026 World Cup squad under Didier Deschamps, after his surprise inclusion in Euro 2024.
The saga follows Karim Benzema's recent departure from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal, with En-Nesyri eyed as a replacement.
