Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri is reportedly targeting Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie as a top priority for the upcoming transfer window. The Turin-based club endured a highly disappointing season, finishing seventh in Serie A due to a 10-point deduction stemming from financial irregularities.
In addition, they have allegedly agreed with UEFA to withdraw from the Europa Conference League next season, which has left Juventus with a daunting task of rebuilding their squad.
To address their shortcomings, Juventus is expected to witness numerous comings and goings, particularly in midfield. The club is looking to offload Arthur Melo, Denis Zakaria, and Weston McKennie in order to raise funds and create room on the wage bill. Arthur is reportedly on the verge of joining Fiorentina on loan, while Zakaria may make a move to West Ham United if both clubs can agree on a transfer fee.
On a positive note, Juventus has managed to secure a new contract with Adrien Rabiot, leaving Allegri in search of just one more central midfielder to strengthen their options for the upcoming 2023-24 season. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano suggests that Juventus is keen on enticing Kessie to return to Serie A, only a year after his departure from AC Milan.
During his time at Milan from 2017 to 2022, the Ivory Coast international established himself as a pivotal player, contributing 37 goals and 16 assists in 223 appearances. However, Kessie’s performance at Barcelona has been less impressive, with only three goals and three assists in 43 matches. Despite this, Juventus views Kessie as a valuable addition to their starting lineup.
While Kessie’s preference is reportedly to stay at Barcelona or consider a move to a Premier League club, Juventus remains determined to secure his services. Barcelona, facing well-documented financial challenges, is likely to entertain permanent bids for the player they acquired on a free transfer. Meanwhile, Barcelona is still in the market for a fresh face to strengthen their midfield under manager Xavi, even though Ilkay Gundogan is set to replace Sergio Busquets.