Juventus are prioritizing the acquisition of midfielder Franck Kessié as a free agent, according to reports from TuttoSport. The move comes amid concerns over the fitness of Khéphren Thuram, who is currently struggling with a knee injury, though his situation is not yet considered critical.
Despite a significant number of midfielders potentially being moved on – including Arthur, Douglas Luiz, Koopmeiners, and Miretti – Juventus are actively pursuing Kessié as a reinforcement for Luciano Spalletti’s squad. The club’s sporting director, Ricky Massara, who previously worked with Kessié at AC Milan, is reportedly in constant contact with the player’s agent.
Kessié himself has reportedly expressed interest in joining Juventus, viewing the club as a desirable destination. Spalletti is known to be an admirer of the Ivorian, having followed his performances during the recent World Cup. The potential arrival of Kessié is seen as a significant opportunity given his availability on a free transfer.
However, Juventus are keen to control wage demands, with the club unwilling to offer Kessié a salary exceeding €5 million per season. Such a figure would place him above current midfielders Manuel Locatelli and Weston McKennie, who recently signed contract extensions. Massara is currently working to negotiate Kessié’s demands, with positive dialogue already underway.
Juventus are also considering other midfield options, including Leon Goretzka and Nemanja Matic, but Kessié is currently considered the priority. A separate pursuit of Lobotka, a player Spalletti admires, is not directly linked to Thuram’s injury concerns. The acquisition of Kessié would provide Juventus with a dynamic and experienced midfielder ahead of the new season.
