Relief all around for Kante. His move had broken down in recent days due to an administrative error from Al Ittihad, meaning he was unable to leave the club during the transfer window. However, the French international has finally seen his situation resolved.
Eager for a new challenge, the 2018 World Cup winner had already informed the club’s management that he no longer wished to play for the Saudi side.
With the window shut, Al Ittihad agreed to terminate Kante's contract so he could move to Istanbul, while Youssef En-Nesyri headed in the other direction.
Kante has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract, running until June 2028. In Turkey, he joins an ambitious squad led by Domenico Tedesco, where he is expected to form a French midfield duo with Matteo Guendouzi.
At 34, the former Chelsea star is about to experience one of the most passionate atmospheres in Europe.