Ivory Coast’s Franck Kessié linked with Juventus move as future in Europe beckons

Ivorian international Franck Kessié is reportedly considering a return to European football after a brief spell in Saudi Arabia, with Italian giants Juventus emerging as a potential destination.

Kessié, who currently plays for Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, left Europe in 2023 following a turbulent period at FC Barcelona. His contract with the Saudi club is set to expire this summer, and he has confirmed that he will not be extending his stay in the Middle East.

According to Italian news outlet Calciomercato, Juventus are among the clubs monitoring Kessié’s situation. The 28-year-old midfielder, who won Serie A with AC Milan before moving to Barcelona in 2022, is reportedly keen on returning to a European top-tier league.

Despite his success in Saudi Arabia, where he has demonstrated that he remains capable of performing at the highest level, the financial terms of his potential move back to Europe present a significant hurdle.

Kessié’s current salary at Al-Ahli, reportedly around €18 million net per year, is seen as a major obstacle for most European clubs, including Juventus.

While the Ivorian is highly regarded for his box-to-box ability and leadership on the field, his high wage demands could complicate negotiations with potential suitors.

This hefty salary is well beyond the budgetary constraints of many teams, especially in Italy, where financial fair play regulations are a constant concern.

The midfielder’s time in Saudi Arabia has not been without its challenges, but Kessié’s performances have shown that he still has much to offer at the top level.

His ability to dominate midfield battles, contribute both defensively and offensively, and offer leadership on the pitch was evident during his time at Milan, where he was integral to the team’s success in securing the 2021-22 Serie A title.

Kessié’s departure to Barcelona, however, marked a difficult period for the player, as he struggled for consistency and playing time under the Catalan club’s managerial regime.

Now, with his time at Al-Ahli coming to an end, Kessié is said to be open to returning to one of Europe’s elite leagues, with Juventus presenting one of the most realistic options.

The Turin-based club, which has undergone significant changes in recent seasons, is looking to bolster its midfield options. The acquisition of Kessié would offer Juventus a versatile and physical presence in the middle of the park, someone who can break up opposition attacks and drive the team forward.

Despite the interest from Juventus, financial considerations are likely to play a major role in whether a deal can be struck. Juventus, like many top European clubs, is under pressure to balance its books in line with financial fair play regulations.

Given Kessié’s substantial wage demands, it remains to be seen if the club is willing to meet his salary expectations or if negotiations will stall before reaching a conclusion.

Kessié’s age and experience make him an appealing target for clubs looking to strengthen their midfield options. At just 28, the Ivorian still has several years of top-level football ahead of him, and his leadership qualities and tactical awareness are seen as assets that could greatly benefit a team aiming to challenge for domestic and European honors.

As the summer transfer window approaches, the future of Franck Kessié remains uncertain. His decision to leave Saudi Arabia and return to Europe appears increasingly likely, but the financial complexities surrounding his move will need to be resolved before any potential deal can be finalised. Juventus, alongside other European clubs, will continue to monitor his situation, hoping to find a solution that aligns with both the player’s ambitions and their own financial frameworks.

For now, Kessié’s future remains in the balance, with his next destination still to be determined. Whether he returns to Serie A with Juventus or finds another European suitor, it is clear that his time in Saudi Arabia is drawing to a close, and a return to the continent seems imminent.