Juventus are negotiating to sign Franck Kessié as a free agent after midfielder Khephren Thuram was ruled out of the entire pre-season with a knee injury.
The Ivory Coast international recently became available without a transfer fee after refusing a contract extension with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli. The Bianconeri view the 29-year-old as emergency cover for their depleted midfield, though financial complications continue to stall progress.
Thuram sidelined with knee condition
Thuram is suffering from patellofemoral pain syndrome, a condition characterised by pain around the kneecap. The Frenchman will train separately throughout the summer and is hoping to regain fitness in time for competitive matches in September.
The injury represents a significant setback for manager Thiago Motta during his first pre-season in charge. Thuram established himself as a central component of the midfield after joining last summer, and his absence removes a key figure from training sessions at a critical stage of squad preparation. Medical staff will monitor his rehabilitation closely with the aim of having him available for the start of the domestic campaign.
Salary demands block agreement
Despite Kessié’s availability on a free transfer, Juventus are unwilling to meet his current wage expectations. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the former AC Milan midfielder has demanded a salary between €5 million and €6 million per season, alongside a substantial signing bonus for himself and his agent.
The club are maintaining that any deal must fit within their established wage structure. While the player is understood to be intrigued by the prospect of returning to Serie A, where he previously spent five seasons with Atalanta and Milan, he must reduce his financial demands to facilitate a move to Turin.
Negotiations between the parties are set to continue in the coming days as Juventus seek to resolve their midfield shortage before the new campaign begins.