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Franck Kessié Set to Sign for Saudi Arabian Side Al Ahli in a €15m deal from Barcelona
In a surprise turn of events, Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie looks set to join Saudi Professional League outfit Al Ahli in a reported €15 million deal. The Ivorian international has long been linked with a move away from the Camp Nou, and it seems that a verbal agreement has finally been reached between all parties involved.
Kessié will sign a three-year contract with Al Ahli, valid until June 2026.
Kessié was a free agent after his contract with Barcelona expired at the end of June. He had been linked with a number of clubs, including AC Milan and Tottenham Hotspur, but he has opted to join Al Ahli.
Franck Kessié's Previous Career
Franck is a box-to-box midfielder who is known for his energy and his ability to score goals. He began his career at Stella Club d'Adjamé in his home country before moving to Italy in 2014 to sign for Atalanta. He played for several clubs, including AC Milan, before joining Barcelona in 2022 on a free transfer.
He made over 200 appearances for AC Milan, but a lesser appearance for Barcelona, and he has won 1x Serie A title with AC Milan, 1x Spanish Super Cup, and 1x Spanish League title.
The 26-year-old Ivorian midfielder has endured a difficult spell at Barcelona since arriving from Milan in 2022. Limited playing time and inconsistent performances led many to question his future at the club.
Despite his struggles in La Liga, Kessie retains a reputation as one of Europe's most promising young talents.
Barcelona's Midfield
Kessie's departure marks yet another high-profile exit from Barcelona this summer, following the footsteps of fellow midfielder, Arthur Melo. While the Spanish champions boast an array of talent in central midfield, including Frenkie de Jong, Gavi, Pedri, and the newly joined former Manchester City playmaker, İlkay Gündoğan, Kessie's sale suggests that the club priorities lie elsewhere.
More so, the transfer would also help Barcelona reduce their wage bill this season while generating some revenue through player sales.
Meanwhile, Al Ahli secures a major coup in luring the African star to the Middle East. Under the guidance of the club's newly appointed coach, Matthias Jaissle. Kessie's physical presence, creativity, and eye for goal should prove invaluable.
Kessie will join star-studded squad including recently joined former Liverpool forward, Roberto Firmino, former Manchester City's winger, Riyad Mahrez, and former Newcastle winger, Allan Saint-Maximin. With this team, Jaissle is sure to lead the team to build upon last season's fifth-place finish and challenge for domestic honors.
