Ivory Coast star Franck Kessié rejects Al Ahli extension amid Serie A return links

Franck Kessié’s future has become one of the most closely watched stories of the summer transfer window, with the Ivorian midfielder reportedly rejecting a lucrative contract extension from Al Ahli as he pursues a return to Italian football.

The 29-year-old remains under contract with the Saudi Pro League club, but uncertainty continues to surround his next move. While Al Ahli are keen to retain one of their most experienced players, recent developments suggest Kessié may be preparing for a new chapter in his career.

According to reports from journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, the Ivory Coast international has declined an offer from Al Ahli to extend his stay.

The proposal reportedly included a two-year contract extension worth €12 million per year. Despite the financial incentives on the table, Kessié is said to have turned down the offer.

The decision has fueled growing speculation that the midfielder is prioritising a return to Serie A, a league where he enjoyed some of the most successful years of his professional career.

Kessié previously represented Cesena, Atalanta and AC Milan, establishing himself as one of the most reliable midfielders in Italian football.

A move to Juventus is increasingly being linked with the player. The Turin-based club has reportedly maintained an interest in Kessié over recent months and could now be in a stronger position to pursue a deal should discussions with Al Ahli remain stalled.

The midfielder is also believed to be willing to make certain concessions to help facilitate a transfer back to Italy. Such a move would mark a return to familiar surroundings for a player who built a strong reputation during his time in Serie A before leaving for Saudi Arabia.

For the moment, negotiations between Kessié and Al Ahli appear to have reached a standstill. That situation may provide an opportunity for interested clubs, although the coming weeks could prove decisive.

Several factors could still influence the outcome. Kessié’s involvement at the 2026 World Cup, the possibility of fresh offers from other clubs and any renewed effort from Al Ahli to convince him to stay could all shape the final decision.

Currently earning an annual salary of €14 million, the Ivorian midfielder remains one of the most notable names on the market. While his immediate future has yet to be resolved, his reported desire to return to Italy has placed Serie A clubs on alert as the transfer window gathers momentum.