Al Ahli step up efforts to re-sign former midfielder Franck Kessie

Al Ahli have opened talks over a potential move to bring Franck Kessie back to the Saudi Arabian club, shortly after releasing the Ivory Coast international at the end of his contract.

The club have begun gathering information to assess whether a deal can be completed, according to Sacha Tavolieri, with Africafoot having previously revealed Al Ahli’s interest exclusively. Kessie is viewed as a serious option to strengthen the Saudi side’s midfield.

The 29-year-old already has extensive knowledge of the club and the domestic competition, having represented Al Ahli from 2023 to 2026. That previous spell is understood to be an important factor as the club consider whether to re-sign him.

Kessie is also said to be attracted by the sporting project put forward by Al Ahli. His positive response could help discussions progress, with initial contact already established to determine the financial and contractual terms of a possible return.

No final agreement has been reached between the two parties. However, Al Ahli are keen to move quickly, and their desire to advance negotiations is described as genuine.

Kessie is valued at 12 million euros. During his time in Saudi Arabia, the former AC Milan midfielder earned an annual salary of 20,000,000 euros, equivalent to 13,000,000,000 FCFA.

The proposed move would see Kessie return to a club and league he already knows well. His previous experience with Al Ahli means he is familiar with the team’s environment, while the club’s interest has developed despite having only recently allowed his contract to expire.

Al Ahli are preparing for their opening match of the Saudi Arabian championship, when they will face Al Diriyah. The game is scheduled to take place soon, as the club continue to work on their squad plans and consider whether Kessie can once again become part of the midfield.

Betting company 1xBet has listed Al Ahli as the clear favourites for the fixture. Its quoted odds are 1.29 for an Al Ahli victory, 3.00 for a draw and 4.75 for an Al Diriyah win.

For now, the transfer remains at the discussion stage. The opening exchanges are focused on establishing the financial and contractual framework, and neither side has confirmed that an agreement has been reached. Al Ahli’s renewed interest nevertheless gives Kessie a possible route back to the club he represented between 2023 and 2026.