AEK Athens make move for Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié as he weighs next step

AEK Athens have formally expressed interest in signing Franck Kessié, with the Ivorian midfielder expected to leave Al Ahli at the end of his contract following a successful spell in Saudi Arabia.

The 29-year-old played a central role in Al Ahli’s recent AFC Champions League triumph, but has yet to agree an extension to his current deal.

Unless there is a late change, he is set to depart Jeddah as a free agent this summer, bringing his time in the Gulf to a close.

Interest from Greece marks the latest development in what is shaping up to be a closely watched transfer situation.

According to information gathered by Africafoot, AEK Athens have identified Kessié as a key target and are prepared to build their sporting project around him.

The Greek club are understood to be ready to present a significant offer in an attempt to secure his signature, signalling their intent to strengthen their squad with an experienced figure who has operated at the highest level.

Kessié’s performances in Saudi Arabia have maintained his reputation as a reliable and influential midfielder, attracting attention from several clubs beyond Greece.

Reports indicate that teams in both Italy and Turkey have also made concrete approaches, adding further competition for his services.

Despite the growing interest, financial considerations are likely to play a decisive role in determining his next move.

The midfielder is currently earning an annual salary of €20,000,000 (13,000,000,000 FCFA) at Al Ahli, a figure that exceeds typical wage structures in European leagues.

Any potential move back to Europe would therefore require a significant adjustment, with interested clubs expected to seek terms that align with their financial realities.

Whether Kessié is willing to accept such a reduction remains a key question as negotiations develop.

His situation reflects a broader dilemma faced by players who have moved to the Gulf, balancing financial rewards with the prospect of returning to more competitive domestic leagues.

For Kessié, the decision appears finely balanced as he considers his priorities ahead of the summer transfer window.

Valued at €12 million by Transfermarkt, the midfielder is not under immediate pressure to decide and is understood to be taking time to evaluate his options.

That approach leaves the door open for further developments, with multiple clubs still monitoring his situation closely.

AEK Athens’ interest highlights their ambition to secure a high-profile signing, while the involvement of Italian and Turkish clubs suggests that competition for Kessié’s signature is likely to intensify in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, Al Ahli are preparing for their upcoming Saudi Pro League fixture against Al Nassr in the 30th round of the season.

Attention around Kessié, however, continues to centre on his future beyond the current campaign, with his next move expected to draw significant interest.

As the end of his contract approaches, the midfielder’s decision will stand out as one of the notable transfer stories of the summer, particularly for Ivorian football.

Whether he opts for a return to Europe or remains elsewhere, his choice is set to shape the next phase of his career.