Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie close to Al-Ahli switch amidst Tottenham Hotspur interest
Franck Kessie, who is currently at Barcelona, is close to making a switch to Al-Ahli this summer amidst interest from Tottenham Hotspur, according to The Athletic (Subscription Required).
The Saudi Pro League outfit have long been eyeing the Ivory Coast international in the ongoing transfer window. To that end, they are now set to acquire his services for €15 million from the Blaugrana.
Last month, the La Liga giants and Jeddah-based club were unable to come to a consensus regarding the move for the 26-year-old. However, talks re-ignited recently and a deal has been struck between all parties involved.
Kessie was not only wanted by Al-Ahli. The midfielder attracted interest from Italian clubs as well. However, he ruled out a move to Serie A, having already spent eight years at teams like Atalanta and AC Milan.
The Ivorian was also on the radar of teams in the Premier League. Spurs were one of the clubs in the English top flight who were keeping tabs on him.
Barcelona signed Kessie in the summer of 2022 as a free agent after he left the Rossoneri. However, the midfielder did not enjoy the best of seasons at the Blaugrana, starting in just seven league matches.
The Ivorian was informed by Xavi that he would likely have a reduced role in the 2023/24 term. With the arrival of Ilkay Gundogan this summer, the La Liga giants have added to their already stacked engine room.
At Tottenham, Ange Postecoglou has a few decent options up his sleeve in the middle of the park as well. Yves Bissouma, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Rodrigo Bentancur and James Maddison are still at the club.
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However, the arrival of Kessie would have arguably added quality to our midfielder. But it looks like the Ivorian is set to link up with Roberto Firmino, Riyad Mahrez and Allan Saint-Maximin at Al-Ahli.
