Kante joins Fenerbahce after Turkish President’s intervention

Fenerbahce have completed the signing of France midfielder N’Golo Kante from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad, with the Turkish club citing the “support” of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in finalizing the move.

The 34-year-old World Cup winner, who turns 35 next month, had been linked with a move to Istanbul earlier, but the transfer reportedly stalled due to an administrative error. Details of Kante’s contract with Fenerbahce have not been disclosed.

The two-time Premier League winner — with Leicester City in 2016 and Chelsea in 2017 — now has the opportunity to strengthen his case for a spot in France’s squad for the upcoming World Cup finals.

“Our club has successfully completed the transfer of N’Golo Kante, a prominent figure in world football,” Fenerbahce president Sadettin Saran said. “On behalf of myself and our club, I would like to express my gratitude to our President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his significant support in ensuring the positive conclusion of this process, which will contribute to the development of both Fenerbahce and Turkish football.”

Fenerbahce, 19-time Turkish champions, have also bolstered their midfield with the signing of fellow Frenchman Matteo Guendouzi during the winter transfer window.

The Istanbul side currently sits three points behind city rivals Galatasaray in a tight league title race and will face English side Nottingham Forest in the Europa League knockout phase play-offs later this month.

Kante’s arrival adds world-class experience and defensive stability to a Fenerbahce side determined to challenge on multiple fronts this season.