Juventus accelerates Franck Kessie transfer after World Cup highlights

Franck Kessie’s standout performances at the 2026 World Cup have pushed Juventus to accelerate their plans to bring the Ivorian midfielder back to Serie A.

At 29, the powerful box-to-box player is seen as a ready-made leader for Luciano Spalletti’s evolving project in Turin.

Juve have been tracking Kessie for a while and view his impending free-agent status, with his Al Ahli contract set to expire soon, as a major market opportunity. Club chiefs believe his experience in Italy and Europe makes him an ideal addition to a squad aiming to return to the top of both Serie A and the Champions League.

Kessie previously excelled with AC Milan, making 127 appearances and scoring 25 goals between July 2019 and June 2022 before joining Barcelona on a free transfer from July 2022 to August 2023. His arrival in Turin could trigger midfield changes, with Teun Koopmeiners and Khephren Thuram among those who might be moved on to create space for him.

Eager to return to European football, Kessie is reportedly open to reducing his salary demands to make the move happen, a stance that further strengthens Juventus’ position in the race for his signature.