Meeting Scheduled
According to a report from Tuttosport, relayed by Football Italia, Juventus executives will meet Kessié’s representative in Milan later this week. The talks are expected to sound out the midfielder’s availability to move to the Allianz Stadium this summer.
Kessié has rejected an offer to extend his contract with Al-Ahli, turning down a €12 million annual salary for an additional two seasons.
This development signals Kessié's readiness to leave the Saudi Pro League after two years in the Middle East. Juventus previously initiated contact with his entourage during the January window, but no agreement materialized at the time.
Kessié's Serie A Pedigree
Kessié would bring a wealth of Serie A experience to Turin. The Ivorian enjoyed successful spells at Atalanta and Milan before moving to Saudi Arabia. At Milan, he was a key figure, famously scoring the decisive penalty that secured their qualification for the Champions League in 2021. His box-to-box capabilities, physical presence, and eye for goal made him one of the league's standout midfielders.
Having publicly expressed his desire to return to Italy, Kessié is believed to favour a move back to a top Serie A club. Juventus, looking to bolster their midfield options, see him as an ideal addition on a free transfer.
Financial Hurdles
The major obstacle, however, remains Kessié's salary demands. Earning €12 million per year at Al-Ahli, any move to Juventus would require a significant pay cut. The Bianconeri operate under a strict wage structure and are unlikely to match his current earnings. The meeting this week is expected to address these financial realities and gauge whether Kessié is willing to sacrifice his salary for a return to Europe.
Reports suggest that negotiations could revolve around a lower base salary supplemented by performance-related bonuses. Juventus are also monitoring other midfield targets, but the opportunity to land a player of Kessié’s calibre without a transfer fee is tempting. If terms can be agreed, Kessié could provide immediate depth and quality to a midfield that has lacked consistency in recent seasons.
Key Takeaways
- Juventus will meet Kessié's agent this week to discuss a free transfer.
- Kessié has turned down a €12 million-a-year extension at Al-Ahli.
- The midfielder is keen to return to Serie A but will need to lower his salary expectations.
- Juventus previously approached Kessié in January, indicating long-standing interest.
Quick Facts
Player: Franck Kessié
Current Club: Al-Ahli
Age: 29
Position: Central Midfielder
Contract Expiry: June 2026