Juventus are readying an approach to sign Franck Kessié without a transfer fee while simultaneously weighing a move for Monaco forward Folarin Balogun. The developments come as talks to secure primary target Randal Kolo Muani from Paris Saint-Germain continue to encounter difficulties.
The Turin club have completed just one summer acquisition to date, securing winger Jeff Ekhator from Genoa. New directors Giovanni Carnevali and Frederic Massara are now working to provide coach Luciano Spalletti with additional reinforcements ahead of the new campaign.
The Bianconeri’s limited activity in the market so far reflects a period of transition under the new leadership, with the focus now shifting to securing experienced campaigners and attacking reinforcements.
Kessié seeks Serie A comeback
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian side are preparing to offer terms to the 29-year-old Ivorian, who recently rejected a contract extension with Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ahli. The former Milan and Atalanta midfielder is reportedly willing to return to Serie A after his spell in the Middle East.
However, significant financial obstacles remain. Representatives for the player have reportedly demanded in excess of €5 million in signing-on fees, complicating negotiations despite the absence of a transfer fee.
Attacking alternatives under review
Kolo Muani remains the priority acquisition for Juventus, yet weeks of dialogue with PSG have failed to yield a breakthrough. The Bianconeri have reportedly issued an ultimatum, threatening to abandon negotiations should the French club refuse to reduce their asking price.
In light of these stalled discussions, Balogun has emerged as a viable alternative. The United States international, who joined Monaco from Arsenal, is contemplating a departure from the Ligue 1 side this summer. The principality club are reportedly demanding €50 million for the 23-year-old, a valuation that matches PSG’s stance regarding Kolo Muani.
Juventus are also monitoring developments concerning Parma forward Mateo Pellegrino as they look to bolster their attacking options.
Decisions required before deadline
The club’s hierarchy must now determine whether to meet PSG’s financial demands for Kolo Muani or pivot towards Balogun, whose cost would be comparable. Meanwhile, securing Kessié would add experienced midfield depth at no transfer cost, though the substantial signing-on fee requires careful budgetary consideration.
With the transfer window progressing, Carnevali and Massara face mounting pressure to complete deals swiftly, ensuring Spalletti has a sufficiently competitive squad for the challenges ahead.