Juventus are preparing an offer for free agent Franck Kessie, with negotiations ongoing for several months, according to reports from Turin. The club is attempting to accelerate talks with the Ivorian midfielder, who recently concluded a spell in Saudi Arabia, and is enticed by the prospect of reuniting with Juventus director Frederic Massara, with whom he previously won Serie A with AC Milan under Stefano Pioli.
Kessie is seeking a substantial economic package, reportedly requesting a €5 million salary, along with commission and a signing bonus, which Juventus acknowledge presents a challenge. The move is viewed as a demonstration of the club’s interest in a player who impressed at the recent World Cup and continues to attract offers from clubs in the Middle East. Juventus currently have a surplus of midfield options including McKennie, Miretti, Locatelli, Douglas Luiz, Arthur, Thuram, Koopmeiners, and Adzic, contributing to their pursuit of Kessie.
Alongside the pursuit of Kessie, Juventus are focused on securing a new striker, with Randal Kolo Muani remaining their primary target. The club is engaged in negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain, but Juventus director Giovanni Carnevali has stated a firm limit to their offer. “Either PSG lowers their demands or we change objective,” Carnevali said, indicating a willingness to explore alternative options if PSG do not compromise on their valuation, which is reportedly above €45 million. Juventus have offered up to €40 million for Kolo Muani and are unwilling to exceed €50 million.
Should a deal for Kolo Muani fall through, Juventus are considering Alexander Sorloth of Atletico Madrid and Folarin Balogun as potential alternatives. They are also monitoring Mateo Pellegrino at Parma, though a move for the Argentinian would likely depend on the departure of Denis David. Juventus are also reportedly interested in Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, but his club has indicated he is not for sale, leading them to also consider Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur. The acquisition of Kessie would add further depth and experience to Juventus’ midfield, while a successful pursuit of a new striker is considered crucial for the upcoming season.
