Any doubts surrounding Franck Kessié‘s physical condition and competitiveness after his spell in Saudi Arabia have been emphatically erased by his outstanding performances for Ivory Coast at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
At 29, the Ivorian midfielder is in the prime of his career and has even shown noticeable improvement in his ability to make decisive runs into the box and contribute in front of goal.
Kessié is now officially a free agent after Al Ahli confirmed his departure in a statement:
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“Al Ahli extends its sincere gratitude to Franck Kessié following an exceptional three-year journey with the club.”
With no transfer fee required, the former AC Milan midfielder has quickly become one of the most attractive opportunities of the summer transfer window, according to Tuttosport.
The biggest obstacle remains his previous salary of €14 million net per season in Jeddah—a figure that is simply unsustainable for European clubs.
However, both Kessié and his agent, George Atangana, are fully aware of the situation and are reportedly open to a significantly lower salary, having already secured substantial earnings during his spells at Barcelona and Al Ahli.
Juventus have been monitoring the midfielder for some time, and Kessié himself responded to the transfer speculation with his trademark confidence:
“Juventus? Yes, I’ve seen the reports. I’d be a fantastic signing. I’m in great shape, I’ve just played at the World Cup, and I’m available on a free transfer—you can’t ask for much more than that!
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That’s why so many clubs want me, and they’re right. My agent is working, the calls keep coming, and honestly, it’s only natural. Even I would sign myself under these conditions.”
Thuram Exit Could Pave the Way for Kessié and Lobotka
Initial reports from Tuttosport suggest Juventus have tabled an offer worth around €5 million per season on a three-year contract, with an option for an additional year.
The Bianconeri hope to move quickly and stay ahead of Roma before a bidding war develops. However, both clubs face similar financial constraints and will need to reshape their midfield squads before completing any major deals.
To finance the move and reduce the wage bill, Juventus are actively working on the sale of Khephren Thuram.
The French midfielder is no longer considered untouchable and has attracted interest from Manchester United, Liverpool, and Nottingham Forest.
While Juventus’ initial €50 million valuation is viewed as ambitious, there is room for negotiation. Selling Thuram would serve a dual purpose.
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Not only would it create the financial flexibility to sign Kessié, but it would also provide the resources needed to launch a move for Stanislav Lobotka.
Negotiations with Napoli remain complicated. The Slovak midfielder’s €25 million release clause is only valid for foreign clubs, while Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is demanding between €30 million and €35 million from Serie A rivals.
Luciano Spalletti’s vision for Juventus is becoming increasingly clear: build a squad capable of winning immediately by blending talented young players with experienced leaders ready to make an instant impact.