N’Golo Kante has reportedly taken a drastic step in his bid to leave Al-Ittihad and join Fenerbahce after a high-profile swap deal between the two clubs collapsed.
The former Chelsea and France star failed to report for team training on Tuesday, February 3, signaling his determination to force through a move to Istanbul. Kanté is described as unwilling to continue playing for the Saudi champions until his future is resolved.
The original agreement was expected to see Sevilla striker Youssef En-Nesyri join Al-Ittihad as part of the operation, but the Saudi transfer window closed before the move could be completed. However, the Turkish transfer market remains open until Friday, February 6, meaning there is still a window for Fenerbahce to sign Kante independently.
Fenerbahce claim an administrative failure in the TMS system, allegedly on the Saudi side, scuppered the initial deal. The clubs are now awaiting FIFA’s verdict on the issue, and fresh negotiations could resume depending on that decision.
Kante’s current stance represents a major headache for Al-Ittihad and adds further tension to an already complicated transfer saga.
