N’Golo Kante Eyes January Move To Boost World Cup Chances

Former Leicester and Chelsea star N’Golo Kante is reportedly closing in on a return to Europe, with Turkish side Fenerbahce favourites to sign him.

Kante is out of contract in the summer and has yet to agree an extension with the Saudi Pro League side.

Al Ittihad are open to allowing the 34-year-old to leave the club but it is unclear whether that would be in January or the summer.

A departure would open the door for a new high-profile signing to arrive during the current window. The club currently have all nine of their over-21 foreign player slots filled, with Kante leaving allowing Al Ittihad to register a new arrival.

Kante joined Al Ittihad in 2023 on a three-year deal, leaving the Premier League after spells with Leicester and Chelsea.

N’Golo Kante runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Yehor Nazaryna of Ukraine during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between France and Ukraine. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)

He was part of the side which won a league and cup double in Saudi Arabia last season.

However, a move to Europe this January will boost his chances of making the France’s squad for this summer’s World Cup.

Kante made just a single appearance for Les Bleus in 2025, featuring against Ukraine in November. That appearance was his 65th international cap, with Kante scoring twice for his country.

Having miss the last World Cup in Qatar due to a hamstring injury, Kante will be eager to book a place on the plane this time around.

Kante was part of Didier Deschamps‘ squad for Euro 2024 as well as previously winning the 2018 World Cup. He was snubbed for the Nations League Finals last year as well as the first four World Cup qualifiers in September and October.

It’s left to be seen if he’ll be recalled when France return to action in March with a pair of friendlies in the USA. They will take on Brazil and Colombia in preparation for the tournament.