kante
The 33-year-old transferred to Saudi Arabia last summer, signing a lucrative four-year contract with Al Ittihad. He joined a significant exodus of marquee players to the Middle East, a trend that has seen numerous high-profile footballers, including Karim Benzema and Neymar, making the move for both competitive opportunities and substantial financial incentives. This influx of talent has significantly raised the profile of the Saudi Pro League, attracting global attention and enhancing its competitive stature.
Mounting injury problems restricted Kante to just seven Premier League appearances in his final year at Chelsea. However, he looked close to his best at Euro 2024, playing a starring role in central midfield as France reached the semi-finals of the competition.
The Guardian reports that West Ham are in negotiations with Kante’s camp over a potential shock return to England. Both parties are said to be willing to get a deal done, indicating a mutual interest in the move.
A £20m fee has been mooted, with new West Ham head coach Julen Lopetegui understood to be a huge fan of Kante’s dating back to his days as Real Madrid manager, and the player himself hinted before Euro 2024 that a move back to Europe could be on the cards.
“No, it’s not over,” Kante replied when asked if his career in Europe had come to an end. “I appreciate the feedback. In Saudi Arabia, it’s a new football environment and a new experience for me.
“Rediscovering these feelings with the French team is wonderful and moving. We aim to perform well. But right now, that’s not a question I’m focusing on.”
“I feel good; last season was positive with Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, and we had strong preparations with the French team. At the moment, I’m feeling well, and I hope that continues.”
The Hammers are in urgent need of additional central midfielders. Kalvin Phillips’ loan from Manchester City last season was a complete failure, and Flynn Downes has been transferred to Southampton on a permanent deal. This leaves Edson Alvarez, Tomas Soucek, and James Ward-Prowse as the primary midfield options, aside from the more attack-minded Lucas Paqueta.
analysis
Kante would bring star appeal, undeniable quality, and a winning mentality to London Stadium—qualities that could help West Ham reach the level they aspire to consistently achieve. However, there are significant concerns for supporters to consider, particularly regarding Kante’s fitness towards the end of his time at Chelsea and, perhaps more critically, his exceptionally high wages in Saudi Arabia.
At the time, Kante was reported to have signed a contract earning over £400,000 per week—sums that exceed even the Premier League’s richest teams, let alone West Ham. For a deal to be feasible for both parties, it would require Kante to accept a substantial pay cut. The key question is how much he and his representatives are willing to reduce his salary.
At 33, Kante’s peak years are behind him, and it could be argued that West Ham might not have the financial flexibility to spend £20m on a midfielder with no resale value. Additionally, they need to address other key positions, including right-back, centre-forward, and potentially another centre-back, considering Kurt Zouma’s persistent knee issues and Nayef Aguerd’s ongoing links with a move away.