AS Monaco rule out move for French-Malian midfielder N’Golo Kante despite transfer speculation

AS Monaco have dismissed suggestions that N’Golo Kante could make a sensational return to Ligue 1 from Saudi Arabia, despite persistent rumours linking the France international with the Principality club.

The World Cup-winning midfielder, currently with Al-Ittihad, had been mentioned as a possible late-window signing, but Monaco’s hierarchy insist the deal is not on their agenda.

Kante, born in Paris to Malian parents, has enjoyed a decorated career in Europe, winning Premier League titles with Leicester City and Chelsea before lifting the 2018 FIFA World Cup with France.

His name surfaced in recent reports as Monaco looked to strengthen their midfield ahead of a busy campaign, but the club has now poured cold water on the speculation.

Speaking during the UEFA Champions League draw in Monaco on Thursday, CEO Thiago Scuro played down the chances of signing the 34-year-old.

“It is a very difficult deal. We already have a very good team, well-balanced. He is a great player, but at this point, there is nothing,” Scuro said.

The Brazilian executive doubled down later in the mixed zone, offering a firm dismissal of the rumour.

“It’s not a possibility,” he added, closing the door on Kante’s potential return to French football.

Monaco have already bolstered their squad with several reinforcements this summer and are banking on the presence of Paul Pogba, another French World Cup winner, who joined the club earlier in the window.

That, coupled with the team’s balance and financial considerations, makes an ambitious move for Kante highly unlikely.

Kante, who joined Al-Ittihad in 2023, is contracted with the Saudi Pro League side until 2026 and remains a central figure for the Jeddah club.