N’Golo Kanté has completed a move from Al-Ittihad to Fenerbahçe, ending days of uncertainty over his future and finalising a swap deal that sees Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri move in the opposite direction to Saudi Arabia.
The transfer brings to a close a week dominated by speculation over whether the French midfielder would remain in Jeddah or return to European football.
After prolonged negotiations, the deal was concluded before the Turkish transfer window deadline, allowing Fenerbahçe to register Kanté’s contract.
The agreement involves a direct exchange between the two clubs, with Kanté strengthening Fenerbahçe’s midfield while Al-Ittihad receive En-Nesyri to bolster their attacking options.
The move has been presented as one that satisfies both sides, addressing immediate tactical needs.
Earlier on the day the transfer was finalised, Fenerbahçe publicly criticised Al-Ittihad, accusing the Saudi club of “refusing to finalize the transfer without giving a reason.”
With the Turkish transfer window set to close on Friday, the delay raised concerns in Istanbul before the paperwork was eventually completed.
Kanté, who previously played for Caen before rising to prominence at the highest level of European football, has signed a contract with Fenerbahçe that runs until 2028.
He joins the club as they continue to reshape their squad, adding experience and defensive stability in midfield.
For Al-Ittihad, the departure marks another high-profile exit involving a French international.
The Jeddah-based club has already seen Karim Benzema leave amid a tense separation, and Kanté’s exit further signals a period of transition.
En-Nesyri’s move to Saudi Arabia sees the Moroccan forward begin a new chapter in his career, providing Al-Ittihad with a striker as they adjust following recent changes within the squad.
While the swap naturally invites debate over the balance of midfielder for striker, the deal ultimately reflects the priorities of both clubs at this stage of the season.
With the transfer now completed, attention turns away from negotiations and back to matters on the pitch, where both Kanté and En-Nesyri will be expected to make an immediate impact.
