Calciomercato report that Juventus have recently intensified their interest in Franck Kessié, fuelling speculation about a possible return to Italy for the Ivorian midfielder. While rumours have captured the attention of fans, the reality behind this potential transfer reveals both opportunities and significant obstacles.
Juventus’ First Steps
Kessié, now 28 and entering the final stretch of his contract with Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, is once again open to a move back to Serie A. Juventus made an initial approach, considering the idea of opening talks for a potential deal that could include Nico Gonzalez, a player admired by Al-Ahli and previously linked with a move to the Saudi club. This double negotiation would allow Juventus to simultaneously find a new destination for Gonzalez and reinforce their midfield with a proven, powerful presence.
The Allure of Kessié
Kessié remains an attractive proposition for Italian clubs thanks to his strong performances with Atalanta and, most notably, AC Milan, where he was a driving force behind their league success. His robust style and ability to energize the midfield are qualities Juventus is seeking as it rebuilds a competitive squad under new management.
Club Competition
Roma was the first Italian club to express interest, with sporting director Frederic Massara a long-time admirer. However, early talks with Roma did not progress beyond preliminary contact. In recent days, Juventus has emerged as a serious party, exploring the feasibility of involving Nico Gonzalez in the deal to facilitate Kessié’s return to Italy.
The Biggest Hurdle: Salary
Despite all the interest, there is a substantial roadblock. Kessié’s contract at Al-Ahli runs until June 2026 and carries an annual salary estimated at around €14 million, which is well above Juventus’ current wage structure. This gap represents the primary challenge and explains why negotiations have so far struggled to move forward. Finding a compromise—potentially requiring either a pay cut from Kessié or creative structuring by Juventus—will be crucial if the deal is to move closer to fruition.
Kessié’s Stance
Kessié has made no secret of his desire to return to Europe and especially to Serie A, having enjoyed the most significant years of his career in Italy. While he remains professional at Al-Ahli, there are no indications he intends to extend his current deal beyond 2026. The prospect of returning to a major European league is appealing to the player, although he has publicly dismissed unsubstantiated market rumours in recent months.
