Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessie is eying a possible return to Serie A, saying he would be a great signing for Juventus as he prepares to become a free agent.
The 29-year-old, currently representing Ivory Coast at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, confirmed that his future remains undecided but revealed that several clubs have already expressed interest ahead of the expiration of his Al-Ahli contract on June 30.
Kessie enjoyed successful spells with Atalanta and AC Milan before joining Barcelona in 2022. He moved to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli a year later and is now expected to leave when his deal expires.
Kessie addresses Juventus links
The midfielder admitted he is aware of reports linking him with a move to Juventus but insisted his immediate focus remains on the World Cup.
“I did see the talk about Juventus,” Kessie told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
I am focused only on the World Cup, but I will just say one thing: I would be a great signing. I’m in good shape, I’m playing at the World Cup, and above all I am a free agent, so what more could you ask for?!
“This is why so many clubs want me, and they are right! But for another five days, I am still a player of Al-Ahli. After the Round of 16, we’ll meet up and I can tell you something else.”
Juventus and Atalanta have both been linked with the Ivory Coast international, who scored 41 goals and provided 16 assists in 204 Serie A appearances before leaving Italy.
Free-agent status attracts interest
Kessie also disclosed that his representatives are in discussions with multiple clubs as interest in his signature continues to grow.
“My agent is working on it, we’re receiving a lot of calls, and that’s to be expected. I too would sign me at these conditions, both physically and financially!” he said.
One of the biggest obstacles to a return to Serie A is expected to be his salary. Reports suggest Kessie could seek wages of between €4 million and €5 million per season, a significant reduction from the reported €14 million annual salary he currently earns at Al-Ahli.
His next move is expected to become clearer once Ivory Coast’s World Cup campaign comes to an end.