N’Golo Kante’s remarkable career could be taking yet another turn. The French World Cup winner, who lifted back-to-back Premier League titles with Leicester City and Chelsea, is reportedly on the verge of a sensational return to European football. With his current club Al Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League opening the door for his departure, several Champions League-level sides are already circling.
Kante’s Saudi Arabian Adventure Nears Its End
In the summer of 2023, Kante joined Al Ittihad after leaving Chelsea, following a well-trodden path of high-profile stars who moved to Saudi Arabia. Sharing the pitch with the likes of Karim Benzema, Fabinho, and Moussa Diaby, the midfielder seemed set for a lucrative late-career adventure.
However, just two years into his stint, the 34-year-old’s time in the Middle East appears to be drawing to a close. Reports from France suggest Al Ittihad are not planning to retain him, while Kante himself is eager for one last challenge in Europe before hanging up his boots.
During his spell with the Saudi giants, Kante made 80 appearances, scoring eight goals and providing 10 assists. He even earned a recall to Didier Deschamps’ France squad, playing in every match at Euro 2024. Despite flashes of brilliance on the pitch, off-field frustrations—particularly regarding salary negotiations—have fueled his desire to move on.
Why Kante Rejected Al Ittihad’s Contract Extension
Although he impressed under coach Laurent Blanc, Kante’s situation behind the scenes soured. The midfielder, reportedly earning significantly less than some of the club’s recent signings, was offered a two-year extension with reduced wages.
True to his humble yet competitive nature, Kante turned down the proposal. For a player who has lifted the World Cup, Champions League, and Premier League titles, settling for less was never going to be an option.
Potential Destinations: Ligue 1 Calling
According to French outlet L’Equipe, several clubs are monitoring the midfielder’s availability. Two standouts from Ligue 1—AS Monaco and Paris FC—are said to be particularly interested.
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AS Monaco: A move here could reunite Kante with fellow Frenchman Paul Pogba, rekindling the partnership that once drove France to international glory. With Monaco competing for European places, the prospect of seeing Kante back in the Champions League is a tantalizing one.
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Paris FC: For the Paris-born midfielder, a return to his roots could be the perfect swansong. Playing close to his hometown would allow Kante to finish his career surrounded by familiar faces, while also providing much-needed experience for a club battling to establish itself in Ligue 1.
Both clubs present enticing options, though Paris FC would represent more of an emotional homecoming, while Monaco offers a higher level of competition.
Other Contenders for Kante’s Signature
The race for Kante is not limited to France. Saudi club Al Qasidah are reportedly interested, though sources claim the player prefers a move back to Europe.
Interestingly, Premier League side West Ham United were also linked with Kante in 2024. The Hammers explored the possibility of bringing him back to England’s top flight, but negotiations failed to materialize. Still, with his desire to return to a high level of competition, a Premier League comeback cannot be entirely ruled out.
A Glorious Career Worth Celebrating
Wherever Kante ends up, his legacy is already cemented as one of football’s greatest defensive midfielders.
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Leicester City: Kante burst onto the global stage during the Foxes’ historic 2015/16 Premier League triumph. His tireless work alongside Riyad Mahrez and Jamie Vardy was instrumental in one of the greatest underdog stories in sporting history.
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Chelsea: After moving to Stamford Bridge, Kante immediately won another Premier League title in 2016/17. Over seven years with the Blues, he added the FA Cup, Europa League, Champions League, and UEFA Super Cup to his glittering trophy cabinet.
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France: Capped 64 times, he played a vital role in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph and featured in every match at Euro 2024, showing his enduring class.
Few players can boast such an array of honors, but Kante’s influence has always gone beyond silverware. Known for his humility, tireless energy, and tactical intelligence, he remains beloved by fans worldwide.
Could We See Kante in the Champions League Again?
At 34, Kante is undoubtedly in the twilight of his career, but his ability to dictate midfield battles remains undiminished. For clubs like Monaco, his experience could be invaluable, especially in European competition.
If he chooses Paris FC, it would be a romantic return home. If he opts for Monaco, fans might yet see him grace the Champions League stage one last time. Either way, his next move will be one of the most fascinating storylines of the summer transfer window.
N'Golo Kanté 🥵#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/sbKdvGv3WB
— UEFA EURO (@UEFAEURO) August 28, 2025
FAQs About N’Golo Kante’s Future
Q: Why is Kante leaving Al Ittihad?
A: Reduced wages and off-pitch frustrations led him to reject a contract extension.
Q: Which clubs are interested in signing him?
A: AS Monaco, Paris FC, and Saudi club Al Qasidah have been linked. West Ham United previously showed interest.
Q: Could Kante return to the Premier League?
A: It’s possible, though current reports suggest a stronger chance of him joining a French club.
Q: How old is Kante now?
A: He is 34 years old and still competing at a high level.
Conclusion
N’Golo Kante’s next move is set to be one of the summer’s biggest transfer stories. Whether he chooses a Champions League club like Monaco or a heartfelt return to Paris, the French midfielder remains one of football’s most admired figures. Fans around the world will be eager to see where his journey takes him next.
