Fenerbahce have completed the signing of French midfielder N’Golo Kante from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, ending days of uncertainty surrounding the high-profile transfer.

The Turkish giants confirmed on Wednesday that the deal had been finalised after earlier complications threatened to derail the move.

Just a day earlier, Fenerbahce had publicly blamed Al-Ittihad for the delay, claiming the Saudi club failed to submit the required paperwork in time.

The transfer was part of a swap arrangement that will see Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesyri move to Al-Ittihad. Fenerbahce, however, later confirmed that all outstanding issues had been resolved, paving the way for Kante’s arrival in Istanbul.

Kante joins Fenerbahce after spending two and a half years in Saudi Arabia, having signed for Al-Ittihad from Chelsea in 2023.

The 34-year-old brings vast experience to the Turkish Super Lig, having enjoyed a glittering career at the highest level of European football.

During his time at Chelsea, Kante won the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup, cementing his reputation as one of the best defensive midfielders of his generation.

He previously joined the London club from Leicester City in 2016, a year after playing a key role in the Foxes’ historic Premier League title triumph.

For Al-Ittihad, En-Nesyri’s arrival comes at a crucial time following the departure of Karim Benzema. The former Real Madrid striker left the club earlier this week to join Saudi Pro League rivals Al-Hilal, prompting the need for reinforcements in attack.

Kante’s move is expected to significantly bolster Fenerbahce’s midfield as the club pushes for domestic and continental success in the second half of the season.