Sluggish Juventus is set to miss out on Franck Kessie | OneFootball

Franck Kessie has spent the last few weeks waiting for Juventus to offer him a contract that he would accept after rejecting their initial approach for his signature, but he could now return to Saudi Arabia.

The Ivorian spent the last three seasons in the Saudi Pro League with Al Ahli, but after his contract expired, he wanted to return to Europe and join a top club. His preference for Serie A allows Juventus to sign him, and he made the Bianconeri his preferred next destination as he looked to return to the football he loves.

Juventus’ first contract offer was not good enough for Kessie, and the club had been planning to return with an improved proposal. However, they have yet to make that happen, leaving the midfielder’s future increasingly uncertain.

Kessie could return to Al Ahli

After allowing Kessie to run down his contract, Al Ahli have reportedly not found a replacement for him and have now decided to make another move to bring him back to their squad this summer.

That development could seriously damage Juventus’ hopes of signing the midfielder. Kessie had made a return to Europe his preference, but the opportunity to return to a club where he spent the previous three seasons could prove difficult to reject.

Juventus face Saudi competition

According to Tuttomercatoweb, Al Ahli have decided to pursue Kessie again after failing to find a suitable replacement for the Ivorian. Their renewed interest could give him another opportunity to earn a significant amount in Saudi Arabia.

Kessie could be open to the move, knowing that he would earn another huge windfall. If Al Ahli present him with an offer that meets his expectations, it could become almost impossible for Juventus to complete a deal for him this summer.

For Juventus, the situation is a setback after Kessie had identified them as his preferred destination. The Bianconeri still have an opportunity if they improve their proposal, but their failure to return with a better contract has allowed Al Ahli to re-enter the race.

Kessie now faces a choice between returning to European football with Juventus or accepting another lucrative opportunity in Saudi Arabia. The outcome could depend on whether the Bianconeri can finally make an offer that convinces him to choose Turin.