Report – Roma Keen to Hijack Juventus Pursuit of Former Serie A Midfielder | OneFootball

Roma are reportedly looking to hijack Juventus’ pursuit of former Milan midfielder Franck Kessie. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Giallorossi could intensify their interest in the Ivorian star amid Manu Kone’s uncertain future at the Stadio Olimpico.

Kessie has reportedly grown frustrated with life in Saudi Arabia and is seeking a way back to Europe. The 29-year-old, who made a name for himself in Serie A, is currently a free agent after running down his contract at Al-Ahli. However, he has received several lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League clubs.

Meanwhile, the player looks eager to return to his old stomping ground, with Juventus emerging as the frontrunners in the race to secure his signature. Yet, Roma could spoil Luciano Spalletti’s plans now that Gian Piero Gasperini is trying to strengthen his midfield options.

Our take on Roma & Kessie

Despite spending the last three years away from Europe’s top-five leagues, Kessie could be a decent coup for Roma. He fared well for his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, proving he can still perform at the highest level.

Still, he’s reportedly asking for a substantial salary, which could be a potential stumbling block. It’s difficult to expect Roma to match his €6 million wage demands, meaning he would likely have to take a pay cut in order to facilitate the move.

On the other hand, Roma remain firmly in the race for Strasbourg prodigy Diego Moreira. His arrival would cost around €30 million, but given his impressive stint in Ligue 1, he’d offer a high resale value.