N’Golo Kante to leave Chelsea on free to join Karim Benzema at Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad

Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante has agreed a transfer to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad.

The 32-year-old French international had been in talks with Chelsea over extending his stay at Stamford Bridge but no deal was finalised.

He will move to Saudi Arabia when he becomes a free agent at the end of the month.

A statement posted by the Saudi champions confirming Kante’s arrival read: “Kante’s addition to Al-Ittihad is considered one of the most high-profile and impactful signings in the club’s history.

“It is part of the club’s efforts to establish itself as a top choice for world-class players in the Saudi Professional League.

“Ittihad Club wishes Kante success in achieving the club’s goals and fulfilling the expectations of all the club’s fans and supporters during his time with the team.”

Kante joined Chelsea in 2016 after winning the Premier League title with Leicester.

He has signed a three-year deal with Al-Ittihad and will join France team-mate Karim Benzema on the team.

Al-Ittihad are one of four teams in Saudi Arabia which are backed by the state’s Public Investment Fund. They also own 80% of Newcastle United, and the country has been on a drive to recruit top international talent to the country.

As well as Kante and Benzema, Paris Saint-Germain central defender Sergio Ramos has been linked with a similarly well-remunerated deal, and Cristiano Ronaldo is already at Al-Nassr after leaving Manchester United in 2022.

It has also been reported that Hakim Ziyech could join Ronaldo at Al-Nassr.

Ziyech moved to Chelsea from Ajax in 2020 but struggled to hold down a regular first-team spot.

Kante leaves Chelsea having won the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Europa League in his time at the club.