Juventus pushing hard to reach an agreement to sign €15 million Barcelona midfielder

According to SPORT, Juventus are now pushing to complete the signing of Franck Kessie from Barcelona at the earliest. The Old Lady have been interested in the Ivory Coast international for a while now, but the operation is now heating up.

Kessie prioritises continuing at Barcelona and has even made the trip to the United States with Xavi Hernandez’s side. He is aware of his options in both the Saudi Arabian League and Serie A and was expected to make a final decision after the pre-season.

Matters have now taken a steep turn. Juventus are pushing to hold a meeting with Barcelona in the USA in the coming hours and hope to finalize his signing soon as manager Massimiliano Allegri sees the midfielder to be a key piece in his project.

The Bianconeri continue to prioritise a loan deal but are no longer closing the door on a permanent transfer wherein they can pay the fee in instalments. Barcelona ask €15 million for their star’s services, and it remains to be seen if Juventus meet that figure given their economic situation.

The ball is seemingly now in the Italians’ park to convince the player of their project. Juventus plan to do so by matching his contract at Barcelona and guaranteeing him a starting role in the team. Moreover, they have already created space for him on the roster through the departure of Arthur Melo.

Barcelona are in dire need of a big sale. Kessie’s departure could open the door for Bernardo Silva or Joao Felix to join Xavi’s setup, although the club could be forced to sell one of Raphinha or Ferran Torres also for the same.

Another interesting option for the Catalans is the swap deal involving Federico Chiesa and Kessie. Given that the Juventus winger’s market value is higher, however, Barcelona might have to pay a reasonable sum if that operation is to go through.