Chelsea star N'Golo Kante's expected move to Karim Benzema's Al Ittihad could now be in danger, with two clubs reportedly trying to hijack the deal.
The Chelsea midfielder is understood to be on the list of high-profile names the Saudi Pro League chiefs are trying to lure to the division.
Read: Man City 'agree deal' for Chelsea star
With 2022/23 champions Al Ittihad having secured Benzema's signature on a three-year deal this week, Kante was widely expected to be the next marquee arrival at the club.
Earlier this week, journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that the Blues star had agreed to the move after being offered a deal worth €100 million (R2 billion) a season.
The Italian transfer expert also stated that the player was set to sign a two-year-old contract, with the option for a third year, after completing a medical in London on Wednesday.
However, it now appears that the 32-year-old's future could be in for another plot twist as he is reportedly yet to actually put pen to paper on any contract.
Contrary to Romano's reports, Spanish outlet Fichajes claims that Kante is still far from signing for Al Ittihad, and that there is no agreement in place with the SPL team.
It is also said that the France international's agent is now in Saudi Arabia to meet with several clubs, with two teams having informed his representative of their interest in signing the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner ahead of Al Ittihad.
These clubs are believed to be Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr and rivals Al Hilal, who recently missed out on signing Lionel Messi after he opted to join Inter Miami in the Unites States instead.
Read: Hans Vonk: 'I had never gotten so many hugs and kisses from black people'
While it remains to be seen who will win the apparent tug-of-war for Kante's signature, it does appear certain that his career is on its way to Saudi Arabia.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
WATCH: