Real Madrid lead race for Serie A midfielder linked to Barcelona, as Xavi makes decision

Franck Kessie is a player that is in huge demand heading into the summer transfer window. The AC Milan superstar is in the final year of his contract and is yet to agree a new deal due to a disparity in wages being demanded by the player and offered by the club.

El Nacional reports that the 24-year-old Ivory Coast international intends to test himself in La Liga, with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid all showing an interest in signing him on a free transfer.

A powerhouse of a midfielder, Kessie has grown into one of the best in Serie A since joining the Rossoneri in 2017 from Atalanta, initially on loan, before his transfer was made permanent in 2019. The Ivorian enjoyed his best-ever campaign last time out, as he helped Milan finish second in the Italian top-flight.

So, the mounting interest in his services does not come as a surprise. However, as per the report, Real Madrid are now in pole position to secure Kessie’s signing on a free transfer next summer. This is because Barcelona have decided to step back in the race for the 24-year-old at the insistence of new manager Xavi.

The 41-year-old who was officially presented as the new first-team head coach earlier this week does not see Kessie as a good fit for the way he wants his team to set up. Furthermore, the Barcelona legend wants to give opportunities to the youngsters coming through at the club, such as Gavi, Pedri and Nico Gonzalez.

As a result, the Catalans do not see the AC Milan star as a priority. While Atletico Madrid are also in the picture, they cannot compete at the same level as their neighbours when it comes to the financial aspects, leaving Real Madrid as the frontrunners for his signing.

Kessie is closing in on 200 appearances for the Rossoneri and, at 24, still has a long career in front of him. An all-action performer, the Ivory Coast star would have offered some variety to the Barcelona midfield contingent if signed. However, it seems like Xavi is not entirely keen, which could take him to Barca’s arch-rivals instead.