Softfootball understands that Fenerbahçe are edging closer to completing one of the most eye-catching moves of the winter window, with N’Golo Kanté poised to return to European football after three seasons in Saudi Arabia.
Following a recent report that Kante has officially begun talks with Fenerbahçe, the Turkish giants have reached full agreement with Kante, who is now close to joining the team, waiting on the final green light from Al Ittihad, as reported by sports expert Fabrizio Romano via his official X account.
He posted:
N’Golo Kanté and Fenerbahçe, the deal remains underway and advanced. Fenerbahçe are just waiting for final green light from Al Ittihad.
The deal is reportedly worth around €4 million, a relatively modest fee considering Kanté’s pedigree and experience.
At 34, the former Chelsea and Leicester City star is approaching the latter stages of his career, but Fenerbahçe see him as a ready-made solution for a midfield that needs control, intensity, and leadership heading into a decisive second half of the Süper Lig campaign.
Kanté had entered the final six months of his Al Ittihad contract, which runs until June 2026. While the Saudi club was initially hesitant to sanction a mid-season exit, Fenerbahçe pushed hard.
Sporting director Devin Özek played a central role in the negotiations, showing little interest in backing off once Kanté became available. The player himself made the difference in the end.
Personal terms with Fenerbahçe were wrapped up weeks ago. Kanté was convinced by the club’s vision and by head coach Domenico Tedesco’s plans, especially after the arrival of Matteo Guendouzi earlier in the window.
Medical tests are expected shortly as soon as Al ittihad gives the final greenlight, with Kanté set to sign a contract running until 2028. If completed, this move could quietly become one of the smartest deals of the season.
