Having signed four new players in this summer transfer window, FC Barcelona are now shifting their energies to selling some of their own players. The club has already identified the expendable members from this squad and is now looking for favorable opportunities to offload them.
One of these players is the midfielder Franck Kessie, who arrived at Barcelona during the last summer transfer window. The Ivorian got some opportunities during the last season and, despite some good performances, has been unable to lock down a fixed position in Xavi’s lineup.
However, Kessie still has a significant demand in the market, and a number of clubs from across Europe have been interested in him. Currently, the Italian team Juventus are leading the efforts to get him signed, and according to SPORT, the Old Lady is very serious about getting the player.
The report mentions that a meeting between the two clubs is imminent, which will take place in the United States. Juventus are working to make room for the player in their squad and want to reach a pre-agreement as soon as possible.
The Juventus coach, Massimilano Allegri, strongly advocates for Kessie and believes he can be the engine for his team for years to come. However, the Italians are yet to convince the midfielder to move to Sicily with the same contract that he has at Barcelona, but having much more significance on the pitch.
Juventus also have to take care of their wage bill, as they have only limited space to maneuver with the FFP. They already have sent Arthur on loan to Fiorentina and are also working to transfer Zakaria to West Ham. Now they have to take care of McKennie, who is not featuring much for Juventus.
Barcelona expect Juventus to pay at least €15 million for Kessie, but a player swap can also be considered. Federico Chiesa has been reportedly offered by Juventus, who is currently more valuable than Kessie and is also liked by Barcelona. However, nothing is finalized for now.
