N’Golo Kanté’s much-anticipated return to European football hit a roadblock on Monday as his proposed move from Al-Ittihad to Fenerbahçe fell through at the final hour.
The Chelsea legend had reportedly agreed personal terms with the Turkish side and was set to bring his experience and midfield mastery to the Süper Lig.
With just six months left on his Al-Ittihad contract, the Saudis had insisted on compensation, agreeing in principle to a swap deal that would see striker Youssef En-Nesyri move to Jeddah.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, both transfers collapsed as the winter deadline passed. While Al-Ittihad were ready to welcome En-Nesyri following the sale of Karim Benzema to Al-Hilal, the deals were never formalized.
FIFA subsequently rejected an appeal from both clubs, citing documentation issues, leaving the swap incomplete.
Fenerbahçe confirmed the failure of the transfer, stating the move was void “due to the incorrect entry of relevant TMS information” provided by Al-Ittihad.
The Turkish club had reportedly agreed a €4 million fee for Kanté, with En-Nesyri included as part of the arrangement, but the paperwork issues meant neither side could register their new players.
For Kanté, this represents another frustrating twist in a career marked by triumphs and high-profile moves.
The midfielder, who helped Chelsea to multiple Premier League and Champions League titles, was expected to bring leadership and defensive solidity to Fenerbahçe. Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad will continue to rely on its current squad as En-Nesyri remains sidelined from the anticipated transfer.
