N’Golo Kante has agreed to a move to Fenerbahce during the current winter transfer window. However, the deal remains complicated, specifically due to Saudi club Al-Ittihad.
The 34-year-old Kante’s contract with Al-Ittihad runs until the end of the current season. Negotiations to extend his stay in Jeddah have taken place in recent months, but without success.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Kante met with Fenerbahce officials in recent days and left convinced that a move to the Turkish club is the best option for him at this time.
Kante is pleased with Fenerbahce’s transfer strategy, most recently the signing of Matteo Guendouzi, and is increasingly convinced that it is the ideal destination for him. He is even willing to take a pay cut to align with the Turkish giants’ financial situation.
Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad is initially adamant about keeping Kanté until the end of the season, as he is considered one of the most important pillars of their midfield alongside Brazilian Fabinho, and losing him now would be a significant blow.
Given the player’s clear desire to leave, Al-Ittihad’s management will not stand in the way of his transfer to Fenerbahçe. However, the Saudi club’s management is clearly demanding a transfer fee and will not allow him to leave for free this January.
It is said that Kanté has informed Al-Ittihad officials of his willingness to waive a large portion of his remaining financial entitlements, as if it were a payment for his move to Fenerbahçe.
The next few days will be crucial in determining the deal, and it also depends on Al-Ittihad identifying and securing a world-class replacement for Kanté to avoid finishing the season without such a vital midfielder.
