France superstar seals $482m Saudi deal as nation’s stunning transfer spree continues

France’s World Cup-winning midfielder N’Golo Kante has joined Saudi Arabian champions Al Ittihad, the club said in a statement on Wednesday, joining up with compatriot Karim Benzema.

“Kante is an Ittihad player now!” the club said on Twitter, while chairman Anmar al-Hailee tweeted: “Welcome to our new tiger Kante,” a reference to the team’s nickname.

The 32-year-old becomes the latest in a line of European stars choosing to ply their trade in the desert kingdom, which is making big-money moves across elite sport.

According to the Daily Mail, his three-year contract will see him earn £85.5m ($A161m) per year – and all $482m AUD is tax free.

A dynamic and industrious midfielder, Kante won the World Cup with France in 2018.

‘Massive potential’: 17yo Aussie freak signs with German giants in stunning transfer

NZ clash abandoned as players walk off in ‘groundbreaking’ move amid claims of racial abuse

His club career also glitters. He won the Champions League and World Club Cup with Chelsea, as well as back-to-back Premier League titles with Leicester City and Chelsea.

Kante’s contract with the London club was set to expire this month. He has signed a three-year deal with Al Ittihad, the Jeddah-based team said in a statement, though it gave no details of how much Kante will earn.

“Kante’s addition to Al-Ittihad is considered one of the most high-profile and impactful signings in the club’s history,” the statement added.

“It is part of the club’s efforts to establish itself as a top choice for world-class players in the Saudi Professional League.”

He will wear the number seven shirt, which he also donned at Chelsea. Current Ballon d’Or holder Benzema joined Al-Ittihad earlier this month, after 14 seasons with Real Madrid