A number of high profile clubs around Europe have revealed their interest in Atalanta’s Ivorian talent, Franck Kessie, with the race for his signature heating up ahead of the January transfer window.
The list of interested parties reads like a who’s who of European elite clubs, with the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Juventus reportedly monitoring the 19-year-old.
With six goals so far for Atalanta this season, the teenager has done his reputation a world of good, but whether he will be making a move away from the Italian league remains to be seen, as Chelsea is pushing hard for the Côte d’Ivoire international’s transfer to London.
Juve recently made an offer of close to €25 million for the midfielder, as they look to snatch Kessie away from their fellow Serie A club, but the team from Bergamo want more for the youngster.
He has a track record of success in Italy, having done well with Cesena and Atalanta during his short career in the country, and a move to the Bianconeri may be more attractive than one that could see him change to the English top-flight.
Juventus have struggled to replace Paul Pogba in midfield since his record move to Manchester United, and with Claudio Marchisio injury ridden in recent months, Kessie could be the ideal player to slot into the Italian champions’ midfield.
Atalanta and Juventus also share a good relationship historically, which has facilitated a number of transfer and loan deals. This will certainly weigh in the Turin club’s favour.