Roma Plot Transfer Revenge on Juventus and Massara by Targeting Franck Kessié

FolioPitch.com – 18 July 2026 | In a dramatic twist to the Serie A transfer market, Roma plot transfer revenge on Juventus and Massara after the Bianconeri hijacked their move for Zeki Celik. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Giallorossi are now preparing a counter-strike by targeting free agent Franck Kessié, a move that could reignite the rivalry between the two clubs.

The tension began when Juventus swooped in to sign Turkish right-back Zeki Celik, who was widely expected to extend his contract with Roma. Celik’s contract had expired on June 30, allowing Juventus to negotiate directly with the player. The 29-year-old opted to fly to Turin instead of Rome, infuriating the Roma hierarchy. What added salt to the wound was that Frederic Massara, Roma’s former sporting director who had overseen Celik’s contract extension talks, left the club in 2025-26 due to disagreements with coach Gian Piero Gasperini and later joined Juventus. Roma view this as a betrayal, and now the club is determined to exact revenge.

Thus, Roma plot transfer revenge on Juventus and Massara by setting their sights on Franck Kessié, the Ivorian midfielder who is currently a free agent after refusing to extend his contract with Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli. Kessié, who previously starred for Atalanta and AC Milan, is open to returning to Serie A. He has already worked with Gasperini at Atalanta, making him an ideal candidate for Roma’s midfield. The club sees him as a potential replacement for Manu Koné, who is being pursued by Manchester United and Liverpool.

Juventus have already opened talks with Kessié’s agents, who are demanding a salary of at least €5 million plus a signing bonus. However, Roma are prepared to enter the race, hoping to outmaneuver their rivals. The Giallorossi are also reportedly interested in Juventus winger Francisco Conceição, but a move for the Portuguese talent is considered unlikely due to his high valuation of over €40 million.

This transfer saga highlights the growing animosity between the two clubs. Roma plot transfer revenge on Juventus and Massara not just as a sporting move, but as a statement of intent. By signing Kessié, Roma would not only strengthen their midfield but also deal a blow to Juventus’s own transfer plans. The Serie A landscape could shift if Roma successfully lure Kessié back to Italy.

Kessié’s experience and physicality would be a major asset for Roma. At 29, he still has plenty to offer, and his previous success in Italy with Atalanta and Milan makes him a low-risk investment. For Juventus, losing out on Kessié to Roma would be a double embarrassment, especially after the Celik affair. The battle for Kessié is expected to intensify in the coming days, with both clubs eager to land the free agent.

In conclusion, the transfer window has taken a spicy turn as Roma plot transfer revenge on Juventus and Massara. The outcome of this pursuit could define the summer for both clubs. Will Roma succeed in luring Kessié, or will Juventus hold their ground? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the rivalry between these two Italian giants shows no signs of cooling down.