Spalletti backs Kessie as Juventus and Atalanta vie for ex-Milan star

Former Milan midfielder Franck Kessie, who spent three seasons at Al‑Ahli, is on a free transfer and has attracted interest from Juventus and Atalanta, with Juventus leading after Luciano Spalletti praised his World Cup form, including a goal against Germany, and a wage ask of €4‑5 million per season. Tuttosport, via CalcioMercato, reported that Kessie’s agents have approached both Juventus and Atalanta directly. Juventus have been monitoring the midfielder for several months. Atalanta’s interest is confirmed by Maurizio Sarri, who has publicly admired Kessie’s attributes. The club also seeks to replace the departed Yunus Musah, whose exit left a midfield vacancy.

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A Juventus move hinges on squad changes, with Carnevali expected to be trimmed from the midfield to free space for Kessie. Without such departures, integration would be difficult. Kessie’s wage request of €4‑5 million per season is markedly lower than the roughly €14 million he earned at Al‑Ahli, making the financial hurdle smaller for Juventus than for Atalanta.

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The Ivorian is described as a free‑agent combining experience, physicality, leadership and goal‑scoring runs from deep, ranking among the most attractive midfield options this summer. His market value has risen after the World Cup performances. A photo from the Saudi Pro League shows Kessie controlling the ball for Al‑Ahli against Al Fayha at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium on 18 April 2025 in Jeddah. The image was captured by Yasser Bakhsh.