Paris FC are preparing an ambitious move to sign N’Golo Kanté (168 cm) from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad in 2026. The potential transfer would mark a stunning return to French football for the former Chelsea and Leicester City midfielder, whose career has spanned Europe’s top leagues and major international tournaments.

According to reports from Foot Mercato, Paris FC are eager to secure Kanté’s services either during the 2026 winter transfer window or when his contract with Al-Ittihad expires at the end of that season.

Kanté’s move to Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League in 2023 was one of the headline transfers of that summer, adding world-class experience to the club’s growing roster. Since joining, the midfielder has played 90 matches for the Saudi side, contributing 9 goals and 10 assists—a testament to his enduring quality and influence on the pitch. Despite adapting to a new league and lifestyle, Kanté has continued to demonstrate the tireless work ethic and consistency that made him one of Europe’s most admired midfielders.

His current market value according to Transfermarkt.com is 5 million euros.

Internationally, N’Golo Kanté remains eligible for the French national team, though his last appearance came in late 2024. With 64 caps and 2 goals for Les Bleus, the midfielder played a key role in France’s 2018 World Cup triumph and has long been regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in the modern game. A return to Ligue 1 could reignite his international prospects and allow him to finish his career closer to home, surrounded by a new generation of French talent.

Paris FC’s growing ambitions make this potential move even more intriguing. The club achieved promotion to Ligue 1 last season and is now backed by Agache Sport, a company owned by Bernard Arnault—France’s wealthiest man and the head of the LVMH group. Under Arnault’s ownership, Paris FC have begun building a bold project aimed at challenging the dominance of Paris Saint-Germain and establishing themselves as a competitive force in French football.

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Bringing in a player of Kanté’s caliber would not only bolster their midfield but also signal Paris FC’s intent to attract world-class talent and gain global recognition. For Kanté, a return to Paris—where he grew up and began his football journey—would represent a full-circle moment in a career defined by hard work, humility, and excellence.

If the deal materializes, it could become one of the most talked-about transfers in Ligue 1, underscoring both Paris FC’s rising ambitions and Kanté’s lasting appeal as one of football’s most respected figures.

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Should Paris FC sign N’Golo Kante?