Barcelona leading the race to sign 25-year-old AC Milan midfielder – Fabrizio Romano

If one had to choose a department that Barcelona had an abundance of talent and options in, the midfield would undoubtedly be the choice. In Gavi, Pedri, Nico and Frenkie de Jong, the Catalans have a core that very few teams can compare with.

However, the lack of a direct replacement for Sergio Busquets continues to plague the side. Though Nico and de Jong have covered for the Spaniard at times, there is nobody in the team who can claim to be a like-for-like alternative.

Of the many options scouted by Barcelona, Franck Kessie has led the list. The AC Milan midfielder will be a free agent come June and is set to move away from the red-and-white outfit.

According to reports from Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are pushing for the signature of the Ivorian player. The Catalan club are now said to be leading the race for his transfer and propose a deal worth a net salary of €6.5 million per season.

The player is tempted by the offer, but there is still no agreement between the parties. Moreover, the presence of Xavi Hernandez and the glorious history of the club are also reported to be factors tempting Kessie to consider Barcelona.

The 25-year-old has played 20 games for AC Milan in Serie A this season, scoring five goals in the process. Not only does he bring with him composure on the ball but also some much-needed physicality on the field. His diverse abilities make him a versatile option for Xavi’s plans, though his primary role will be in defensive midfield.