Chelsea, Tottenham, Man United crazy about signing Barcelona midfielder – report

According to Roger Torello of Mundo Deportivo, three of the Big Six of the Premier League, namely Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur are ‘crazy’ about signing Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie.

The Ivory Coast international joined the club only last summer, arriving on a free transfer after his contract at AC Milan had expired. Kessie endured a difficult first half of the season at Barcelona, as he struggled to break into Xavi’s starting XI.

But of late, the 26-year-old has been growing in prominence at Spotify Camp Nou, especially in the recent injury-enforced absence of Pedri. He was particularly impressive in the recent Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Madrid.

However, Kessie’s future continues to be a subject of debate given that the Catalan giants need to make some sales to resolve Financial Fair Play issues.

Inter Milan continue to be linked with the 26-year-old, but now as many as three Premier League clubs in Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham are showing an interest in the Barcelona ace.

Tottenham, in particular, have shown the strongest interest in signing Kessie. Their manager Antonio Conte knows the midfielder well from his time in Italy and wants to add him to the roster next summer, although the manager’s uncertain future in north London could dictate things.

As for Chelsea, Kessie is being viewed as a possible replacement for N’Golo Kante, who is out of contract at the end of the season. The Frenchman is close to recovering from a long-term injury and even if he signs a new deal, given his age and fitness woes, a new midfielder is on the agenda.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are looking for another midfielder to add to their ranks after signing Casemiro last summer. While they continue to be interested in Frenkie de Jong, Kessie has also emerged as a potential target for Erik ten Hag’s side.

The Ivorian, however, is fully focusd on Barcelona and has no desire to leave in the summer. But, the FFP problems could compel the club to consider a sale.