Franck Kessié is being linked with a move from Al-Ahli to Galatasaray, with the Ivorian-Italian midfielder the subject of growing transfer speculation between the Saudi Pro League and Türkiye’s Süper Lig.
Data compiled by transfer specialists lists the probability of the switch at 48%, underlining that talks are at rumour stage rather than an advanced negotiation. Kessié, currently valued at €12.00m, is understood to be one of the higher-profile central midfielders who could be on the move, with his Al-Ahli contract situation not clearly defined and the possibility of a future free-agent scenario not ruled out by the figures available.
The 29-year-old, born on 19 December 1996 in Ouragahio, has become one of the most recognisable box-to-box midfielders of his generation, operating primarily in central midfield and favouring his right foot. Having joined Al-Ahli from Barcelona in 2023, he added the Saudi Pro League to an already extensive CV that includes Serie A with Atalanta and AC Milan, and La Liga with Barça.
Market value data shows a notable decline from a peak of around €55m during his AC Milan days to €12.00m at Al-Ahli, a trajectory that may tempt Galatasaray to seek what they could regard as a value signing for a player still in his late twenties and with significant European experience. The Istanbul club, regulars in European competition, are often attracted to midfielders capable of adding physicality and tempo control.
Kessié holds nationalities from Côte d’Ivoire and Italy, further enhancing his appeal in European football’s regulatory landscape. His past moves from Atalanta to Milan, then Barcelona and Al-Ahli, demonstrate a willingness to adapt to new leagues and tactical demands.
Should a deal materialise, a transfer to Galatasaray could offer Kessié a route back into the European spotlight and provide a fresh platform to reshape both his reputation and market value in the latter stages of his prime years.
