Here we go: Barcelona complete the signing of 25-year-old midfielder – Fabrizio Romano

Barcelona could be on the verge of announcing their first signing of the new season, in the form of Franck Kessie, reports Fabrizio Romano.

The reliable Italian journalist has claimed that Barça have reached an agreement with the AC Milan midfielder, who has already completed a medical, ahead of a potential Bosman move to Camp Nou in the summer.

Kessie has signed a four-year deal worth around €6.5 million per year, excluding add-ons. Romano has “Here We Go”-ed the deal, which usually means a potential announcement could be just around the corner.

Kessie’s potential addition to Barcelona could serve as a major boost for Xavi Hernandez, who had been crying out for a reliable new midfielder for quite some time now.

While Sergio Busquets has performed admirably well under the Barcelona coach, he is already in the final phase of his career, with doubts rife over his longevity at the highest level of football.

Kessie is not a typical number six, by any means. However, his unique combination of aggression, physique and offensive qualities could add more variety to the Barcelona midfield, offering Frenkie de Jong and Pedri a reliable new partner in the long term.

One may point at the potential exit of de Jong next summer, but it is apparent Xavi has no intentions of letting the Dutchman leave, having notably blocked his exit in the January transfer window.

Kessie has been at AC Milan for four and a half years now. He has racked up over 200 competitive appearances for the Rossoneri and brings an abundance of experience to the table, which could be critical Barcelona look to embark on a new era under Xavi Hernandez next season.