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Fenerbahce's move for former Chelsea and Leicester City midfielder N'Golo Kante has been blocked by FIFA. The Turkish Super Lig team said the proposed transfer from Saudi side Al-Ittihad was cancelled due to administrative failures beyond their control.

The move hinged on a swap deal that would have seen Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri go the other way. It is said that the move would have included a transfer fee of around £3million.

But Fenerbahce claim that Al-Ittihad entered incorrect information into the system required for transfers and failed to correct it before the deadline on Monday. It is said that appeals were made, but FIFA rejected them.

Now, two-time former Premier League winner Kante could leave Al-Ittihad for free this summer with his contract expiring in June. And Fenerbahce have expressed their fury at the move falling through.

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A statement on the club's website said: "The transfer process involving N'Golo Kanté and Youssef En-Nesyri with Al Ittihad Club has been meticulously conducted by our club in all aspects, as planned.

"In line with the requests of our technical team, agreements have been reached with the players; the medical examinations of the player to be transferred have been completed, the necessary approvals have been obtained, and our club has fulfilled all its obligations completely and on time. The documents related to the transfer registration have been uploaded to the system correctly and completely within the specified period.

"However, due to the opposing club's incorrect entry of the relevant TMS information, the transactions could not be completed within the transfer registration period, independently of our club. Accordingly, an extension was requested, necessary discussions were held with FIFA by our club, and all steps were taken to resolve the issue. Despite this, the opposing club has not completed the transactions without providing any justification to us.

"As a result of these developments, the transfer process, unfortunately, could not be finalised. We understand and share the disappointment this process has caused within our community.

"Our club continues its squad restructuring with the same determination and discipline in line with its sporting goals."

Kante joined the Saudi club in 2023 on a three-year deal. He was part of the side which won a league and cup double last season.

The France World Cup winner has made 21 appearances across all competitions, scoring once. However, Al Ittihad currently find themselves 12 points adrift of league leaders Al Hilal in sixth place. Al-Ittihad have been approached for comment.

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