Franck Kessie returns to Atalanta after Saudi Arabia spell

Ivory Coast captain Franck Kessie has returned to Atalanta, the Serie A club where he began his European career.

The Italian side confirmed on Saturday that the 29-year-old midfielder had signed a multi-year contract, although no further details were disclosed.

Juventus had also been interested in signing Kessie, but coach Luciano Spalletti said financial fair play restrictions prevented the move.

“If we don’t sell someone, it’s tough to consider new entries,” Spalletti said on Friday.

Kessie first joined Atalanta in 2015, initially linking up with the club’s youth team before spending a season on loan at Cesena.

He made an immediate impact on his Serie A debut for Atalanta in 2016, scoring twice, and later went on to represent AC Milan, Barcelona and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.

His return strengthens an Atalanta side now coached by Maurizio Sarri, which opened its Serie A campaign with a win over Sassuolo and hosts Bologna on Monday.

Kessie also enjoyed a memorable international year with Ivory Coast, helping the Elephants reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time. He scored in their group-stage defeat by Germany.