Kessie Eyes Serie A Return: Spalletti’s Approval Puts Juventus Ahead of Atalanta

FolioPitch.com – 26 June 2026 | Franck Kessie‘s representatives have offered the former AC Milan midfielder to Juventus and Atalanta, with the Ivorian eager to return to Serie A after three seasons in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli. According to reports, Luciano Spalletti has given his seal of approval for the move, making Juventus the frontrunners in what could be a pivotal transfer saga. This development underscores the growing interest in the player, as Spalletti likes Kessie as Juventus Atalanta eye moves for former Milan midfielder, a sentiment echoed by the Italian coach after Kessie’s impressive World Cup performances.

Kessie, 28, has been a standout for Ivory Coast in recent international fixtures, including a notable goal against Germany. His physicality, leadership, and ability to make late runs into the box have reminded Italian football of the qualities that made him a key figure at Milan. Despite his time in the Saudi Pro League, Kessie remains in excellent shape, and his availability on a free transfer has sparked a scramble among top Italian clubs. Juventus, under Spalletti’s guidance, see Kessie as an ideal addition to bolster their midfield, especially given their need for depth and experience. The phrase “Spalletti likes Kessie as Juventus Atalanta eye moves for former Milan midfielder” has become a talking point in transfer circles, as the Bianconeri look to finalize the deal.

However, the move to Juventus is contingent on squad departures. Sporting director Giovanni Carnevali must first offload some midfielders to create space for Kessie. This hurdle could delay the transfer, but Juventus remain confident due to their superior financial resources compared to Atalanta. Kessie’s wage demands are significant: he is seeking between €4 and €5 million per season, a substantial drop from the roughly €14 million he earned at Al-Ahli. For Juventus, this is manageable, but for Atalanta, it represents a considerable challenge. Nevertheless, Atalanta are also monitoring the situation closely. Coach Maurizio Sarri is a known admirer of Kessie, and the departure of Yunus Musah has left a gap in their midfield. The idea that Spalletti likes Kessie as Juventus Atalanta eye moves for former Milan midfielder has kept both clubs engaged, but Juventus’s financial muscle gives them an edge.

Kessie’s agents have made direct approaches to both clubs, according to Tuttosport via CalcioMercato. Juventus have tracked the midfielder for months, and his performances in the World Cup have only strengthened their interest. Atalanta, while interested, face a steeper financial hurdle. The Bergamo club would need to adjust their wage structure or rely on player sales to afford Kessie. Meanwhile, Spalletti’s endorsement is seen as a decisive factor. The Italian national team coach, who also has sway at Juventus, believes Kessie can thrive in Serie A again. This has fueled the narrative that Spalletti likes Kessie as Juventus Atalanta eye moves for former Milan midfielder, and it could be the key to unlocking the transfer.

Kessie is considered one of the most attractive free agents on the market this summer. His experience in Serie A, combined with his physical presence and goal-scoring record from midfield, make him a valuable asset. At Milan, he scored 37 goals in 223 appearances and won the Scudetto in 2022. His time at Al-Ahli saw him maintain his fitness, and he remains in his prime. For Juventus, adding Kessie would provide a different dimension to their midfield, which currently lacks a box-to-box powerhouse. For Atalanta, he could replace the energy lost with Musah’s exit. But the wage demands remain a sticking point, and Juventus appear better positioned to meet them.

As negotiations continue, the transfer saga is likely to dominate the summer window. The phrase “Spalletti likes Kessie as Juventus Atalanta eye moves for former Milan midfielder” summarizes the current landscape: Spalletti’s approval gives Juventus the edge, but Atalanta are not out of the race. Kessie’s desire to return to Italy and prove himself again could lead to a swift resolution. For now, all eyes are on Juventus to see if they can free up the necessary squad space and secure the deal.

In conclusion, Franck Kessie’s potential return to Serie A is one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the summer. With Spalletti’s backing and Juventus’s financial advantage, the midfielder seems destined for Turin. However, Atalanta remain a credible alternative if they can find a way to meet his salary demands. Ultimately, the decision may rest on Kessie’s own preference and his willingness to take a pay cut to don the black and white stripes. The coming weeks will reveal whether Spalletti’s liking for Kessie as Juventus Atalanta eye moves for former Milan midfielder translates into a completed transfer.