Franck Kessié becomes a free agent! Serie A teams line up to court him | OneFootball

Franck Kessié’s Saudi Arabian adventure is officially coming to an end after nearly three years. His contract with Al-Ahli has expired and the 29-year-old Ivorian midfielder will soon be completely free. According to sources close to Hooligan Soccer, Juventus, AS Roma, and Napoli view Kessié as a prime free transfer opportunity. The convergence of these three Italian giants around the same player indicates that his return to Serie A is now only a matter of time.

Kessié’s Words Tell the Entire Story

In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Kessié did not remain silent regarding the transfer rumors linking him with Juventus. He confirmed that ongoing contacts are sustained. Although he stated that his current focus remains solely on the World Cup, he described a potential move to Juventus as a “great transfer”. This statement reveals that his interest in the Turin club is entirely genuine.

Kessié spoke with absolute clarity before the public. He clearly emphasised that he is fully fit, included in the World Cup squad, and holds free-agent status. He added that multiple clubs want to sign him. He also stated that his agent is actively working and receiving numerous phone calls. Such a transparent scenario suggests that the waiting period following his release will not be long.

Stating that he will play for Al-Ahli for just 5 more days, Kessié will then become completely free. This date does not represent an exit door, but rather the opening of a fresh start. And behind that door, multiple heavyweight clubs are waiting.

Why Juventus?

We’re told that Juventus are fully prepared to add Kessié to their squad on a free transfer. This represents a highly attractive operation, as the deal requires only wages and personal terms. Juventus are under heavy financial pressure during this summer market. The loss of revenue caused by failing to qualify for the Champions League forces the club toward cost-effective yet high-quality transfers. Kessié meets this exact requirement perfectly.

Juventus evaluate Kessie’s profile as a direct solution to their midfield depth issues. He’s considered compatible with Luciano Spalletti’s tactical system through his ball-winning capacity, physical power, and game-reading intelligence. His willingness to undertake both defensive and offensive duties represents the exact criteria Juventus are hunting for.

Roma: A Different Motivation

The inclusion of AS Roma in this race injects a completely different dynamic into the picture. Roma need an experienced player who can lead the midfield and hold authority in the dressing room. Kessié also fits this exact description. His years spent in Serie A with AC Milan represent a career story that Roma fans know very well. His familiarity with the Italian league and zero adaptation risk represent a powerful attraction for Roma.

Hooligan Soccer have been told that Roma have made preliminary enquiries about Kessié’s availability and personal terms. There is no official bid on the table yet. But this exploratory movement serves as a clear indication that the club is taking this transfer seriously. For Roma, who will participate in the Champions League, Kessié’s experience and quality carry massive value in a congested European calendar.

Can He Adapt to Napoli’s System?

Napoli’s interest might appear as a surprise at first glance. The midfield area in Napoli’s system demands highly specific roles. However, a closer look reveals that Kessié’s profile possesses a structure that can comfortably adapt to this need. His high press, sprinting capacity, and efficiency in winning back possession align with most of the traits Antonio Conte demands.

Napoli are restructuring their midfield this summer. Multiple player departures are expected, and the club is executing an active transfer policy to fill these vacancies. Securing Kessié on a free transfer could be a clever choice from both a financial and sporting perspective. We understand that Napoli are tracking Kessié’s agent and evaluating the situation closely.

The World Cup Factor

Kessié’s approach to prioritise the World Cup during this process represents a strategic stance. His performance during the tournament will directly impact his market value. A strong tournament increases the number of chasing clubs and strengthens the player’s hand in wage negotiations. Kessié realises this reality. It is understood that his agent is managing this period carefully and preparing for the post-World Cup market.

Holigan Soccer can exclusively reveal that Kessie’s camp are in no rush to finalise a destination before the World Cup concludes, preferring to allow the tournament to run its course before committing to personal terms with any club. This patient approach demonstrates that Kessie is thinking about his career long-term and will wait for the best possible project.

Wage Expectations and Competitors

The free transfer changes everything. Clubs can now act with much more flexibility regarding the wage package. Meeting the salary Kessié received in Saudi Arabia will not be easy in Italy. However, the involvement of three major Serie A clubs creates a highly competitive environment in wage negotiations. This rivalry could push the player’s final package upward.

Aside from Italy, it is not yet clear whether there is concrete interest from other countries. However, Kessie’s remark that “many clubs are calling” indicates that this dossier is not restricted solely to Italy. A surprise suitor emerging from the Premier League or the French league remains well within the realms of possibility.

Kessié’s Serie A Return is Near

His Al-Ahli chapter is closing. Kessié will open a fresh page after the World Cup. Juventus stand as the strongest candidate. Roma and Napoli are keeping this race alive. Which heavyweight will push to the front? Personal terms and Kessié’s individual preference will be the deciding factors.