Al-Ittihad have officially confirmed the termination of N’Golo Kanté’s contract, bringing clarity to the midfielder’s future and paving the way for his move to Turkish giants Fenerbahce.
The Saudi Pro League side announced Kanté’s departure in a brief statement released via their official social media channels, ending speculation that had surrounded the French international over the past 48 hours. In the statement, Al-Ittihad said, “The club agrees to sell the remaining period of N’Golo Kanté’s contract.”
With the termination confirmed, Kanté is now set to complete his move to Fenerbahce, where he is expected to sign a contract that will keep him at the club until 2028. The transfer was finalised after FIFA granted approval for the move, following an administrative issue that initially delayed the process.
Sources close to the deal indicate that the delay was linked to documentation and registration procedures surrounding Kanté’s exit from Saudi Arabia. FIFA’s intervention ensured that the transfer complied fully with international regulations, allowing both clubs to proceed without further complications.
Kanté joined Al-Ittihad as one of the most high-profile signings in the Saudi Pro League’s recent recruitment drive, which saw several elite European players move to the Middle East. His arrival was viewed as a statement of intent by the Jeddah-based club as they sought to compete at the highest level domestically and on the continental stage.
During his time at Al-Ittihad, Kanté was praised internally for his professionalism, discipline and leadership, although injuries limited his consistency on the pitch. Despite flashes of his trademark energy and tactical intelligence, the midfielder struggled to enjoy an extended run of games, prompting discussions over his long-term role at the club.
The uncertainty surrounding Kanté’s future intensified over the past two days, with reports emerging that Fenerbahce were in advanced talks to secure his signature. While neither club initially commented, the confirmation from Al-Ittihad has now officially brought the situation to a close.
For Fenerbahce, the signing represents a major boost as they prepare for domestic and European competition. The Istanbul-based club has been keen to add experience and quality to its midfield, and Kanté’s arrival is expected to bring both leadership and balance to the squad.
Club sources in Turkey suggest that Fenerbahce moved quickly once FIFA approval was granted, finalising personal terms and agreeing a long-term deal that reflects the club’s confidence in Kanté’s ability to contribute at the highest level. The midfielder is expected to undergo medical assessments before being officially unveiled by the club.
Kanté’s move to Turkey marks a return to a highly competitive European environment after his spell in Saudi Arabia. Despite recent injury setbacks, he remains one of the most respected midfielders of his generation, known globally for his tireless work rate, positional awareness and humility.
Over the course of his career, Kanté has enjoyed remarkable success, winning major domestic titles and international honours, and earning widespread admiration from teammates, managers and supporters. His experience is expected to be invaluable for a Fenerbahce side aiming to challenge strongly on multiple fronts.
Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, are expected to continue reshaping their squad as they balance ambition with long-term planning in the Saudi Pro League. While the club’s public statement was brief, sources indicate that Kanté leaves with the respect of the dressing room and club officials.
The completion of the deal brings an end to a short but intense period of speculation and allows all parties to move forward. Kanté will now focus on settling into life in Turkey and preparing for the next chapter of his career, while Fenerbahce supporters eagerly await his official presentation.
With FIFA approval secured, contracts finalised and Al-Ittihad’s confirmation issued, the transfer saga has been resolved, marking a significant move in the current football transfer landscape.
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