Juventus Eye Ivorian star Franck Kessié but demand major salary cut

Juventus have renewed their interest in Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessié, but the Italian giants insist he must accept a pay cut to join.

The former AC Milan and Barcelona player currently features for Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, where he moved in the summer of 2023.

Kessié, 28, remains eager to return to European football after just over a year in the Saudi Pro League.

Juventus monitored his situation closely during the previous transfer window but failed to finalise a deal.

Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that the Turin club still see value in his experience and versatility, yet they will only move forward under strict financial conditions.

Kessié’s current contract with Al Ahli runs until June 2026, but the club might consider selling him earlier to avoid losing him on a free transfer.

The Saudi side reportedly values him at a discounted fee compared to his previous market levels. Juventus, however, view his wage demands as the main obstacle to any potential move.

The Ivorian international earns around €20 million per year — a figure Juventus cannot match under their current wage structure.

Club executives believe that any deal would depend entirely on the player’s willingness to accept a substantial reduction in salary.

Sources suggest that Juventus are open to negotiating a long-term contract if Kessié adjusts his financial expectations to align with Serie A’s economic realities.

Kessié’s market value stands at around €14 million, reflecting his continued appeal in European football.

This season, he has made ten appearances across all competitions for Al Ahli, scoring three goals and amassing 900 minutes on the pitch.

His performances have demonstrated his trademark physicality, tactical awareness, and ability to control midfield tempo.

Despite the financial hurdles, Juventus appreciate Kessié’s proven track record in Italian football.

His success at AC Milan, where he became a key figure before joining Barcelona in 2022, still resonates with the club’s leadership.

The Ivorian’s familiarity with Serie A’s intensity and tactical demands makes him a desirable target as Juventus aim to strengthen their midfield depth.

Kessié, capped multiple times by Ivory Coast, continues to balance ambition with pragmatism.

His desire to compete again in Europe’s elite leagues contrasts sharply with the financial security offered in Saudi Arabia.

For Juventus, the challenge lies in convincing him to prioritise sporting goals over salary.

The situation remains open as both sides weigh their options ahead of the next transfer window.

Juventus want a player who can add experience and leadership, while Kessié seeks a return to a league where he once thrived.

Whether the two parties can find common ground will depend on one crucial factor — how much the Ivorian star is willing to sacrifice for his European comeback.