N'Golo Kante Joins Fenerbahce After Revived Transfer From Al-Ittihad

Fenerbahce confirm that N'Golo Kante has joined from Al-Ittihad on a deal running until June 2028, after FIFA approved the transfer. The move revives an earlier agreement that collapsed, and adds another high-profile midfielder to the Turkish Super Lig contenders as they push for domestic success.

Fenerbahce are three points behind leaders Galatasaray in the Super Lig and have not lifted the title since 2013-14. Kante joins alongside January arrival Matteo Guendouzi, as the club seek more experience and control in midfield to strengthen their challenge during the second half of the campaign.

The original deal involving Kante fell apart on Monday, with Fenerbahce then releasing a statement on Tuesday. The club blamed Al-Ittihad for administrative mistakes that stopped the transfer. That agreement also included Youssef En-Nesyri moving in the opposite direction as part of a wider exchange between the two teams.

Despite the initial breakdown, both clubs reopened talks and reached fresh terms. With those details settled, FIFA granted permission for the registration to proceed. Kante has now signed his contract with Fenerbahce, confirming a long-term commitment that ties the 34-year-old to Istanbul until the end of the 2027-28 season.

Kante joined Al-Ittihad from Chelsea in 2023 and played a major role in midfield. The France international made 79 league appearances for the Saudi Pro League side, scoring eight goals and providing nine assists. Kante also contributed to Al-Ittihad winning the Saudi Pro League and King's Cup titles in the 2024-25 campaign.

Fenerbahce, N'Golo Kante and Al-Ittihad striker movement

Youssef En-Nesyri did still complete a switch to Al-Ittihad as part of the broader arrangement. The Morocco international had scored seven goals in 16 Super Lig matches for Fenerbahce this season. At Al-Ittihad, En-Nesyri is expected to replace Karim Benzema, who left earlier this week for Al-Hilal.

This reshaped deal changes the squads of both Fenerbahce and Al-Ittihad, with Kante and En-Nesyri taking central roles. Fenerbahce gain title-winning experience in midfield, while Al-Ittihad secure a forward after Benzema's departure. The moves also underline the active transfer links between Saudi and Turkish clubs.