Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri has allegedly identified Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie as a priority transfer target. The Italian giants have just endured a hugely disappointing season, finishing in seventh place in Serie A courtesy of a 10-point deduction for financial irregularities.
With club officials also allegedly agreeing to pull out of next season's Europa League Conference, Juventus face a major rebuilding job. A wide array of incomings and outgoings is expected, particularly in midfield. Juventus hope to part ways with Arthur Melo, Denis Zakaria, and Weston McKennie to raise funds and free up wage bill space.
Arthur is said to be on the brink of joining Fiorentina on loan, while Zakaria could switch to West Ham United if the two clubs agree on a fee. On a positive note, Juventus have agreed fresh terms with Adrien Rabiotonthe upcomingcontract. This effectively leaves Allegri looking for another central midfielder to complete his options in that area of the pitch for 2023–24.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Juventus are hoping to tempt Kessie into returning to Serie A just one year after his departure. The Ivory Coast international established himself as a key player at AC Milan between 2017 and 2022. He helped the club win the league title the previous season before moving to Camp Nou on a free transfer.
As many as 37 goals and 16 assists came from 223 appearances for Milan, in sharp contrast to what the 26-year-old has achieved at Barcelona. Just three strikes and three assists were recorded in 43 matches, with only seven starts coming in La Liga and nine in other competitions.
Although Ilkay Gundogan will effectively act as a straight replacement forSergio Busquets, Barcelona are still in the market for a fresh face to bolster Xavi's midfield ranks. Kessie's preference is allegedly to stay at Barcelona or accept a move to a Premier League club. However, Juventus seemingly want him to play an instrumental role in their starting lineup from 2023–24 onward.
With Barcelona needing to generate funds to resolve their well-documented financial issues, club officials are likely to only consider permanent bids for a player they acquired as a free agent.
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