Ivory Coast captain Franck Kessié could be on the verge of a return to European football after reportedly rejecting a lucrative contract extension from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli.
With his current deal set to expire in the coming days, the Ivorian midfielder has chosen not to accept an offer that would have seen him remain in Jeddah on an annual salary reportedly worth 7 billion CFA francs.
According to reports from Italy, Kessié’s preferred destination is Serie A, where he previously established himself as one of the league’s most influential midfielders.
The development has generated significant interest across African football, with the 29-year-old regarded as one of the continent’s most accomplished players and a key figure for the Ivory Coast national team.
Despite growing transfer speculation, Kessié is currently focused on international duties and the ongoing FIFA World Cup.
However, discussions surrounding his future are expected to intensify as his contract approaches its conclusion.
Italian newspaper Tuttosport reports that a return to Serie A is emerging as the most likely outcome.
The report suggests that Kessié’s profile is highly regarded by Italian football figures, including national team coach Luciano Spalletti and new general manager Giovanni Carnevali.
Their admiration reflects the strong reputation the midfielder built during his previous spell in Italy, where he developed into one of the most consistent performers in the league.
Italian clubs are now reportedly examining the financial details of a potential deal and assessing whether they can meet the player’s expectations.
For Kessié, the attraction of returning to familiar surroundings appears significant.
Having previously enjoyed success in Italy, the midfielder knows the demands of the competition and has already demonstrated his ability to thrive there.
That experience is viewed as one of the major factors influencing the current situation.
Kessié’s next move will be closely followed.
The Ivory Coast captain remains one of the continent’s leading football exports and has played a major role in raising the profile of African midfielders in Europe over the past decade.
His leadership qualities, physical presence and technical ability have made him a key player both at club level and for the national team.
The decision to turn down a substantial financial package from Al-Ahli has also attracted attention.
At a time when many high-profile players continue to move to Saudi Arabia, Kessié’s reported preference for a return to one of Europe’s top leagues highlights the sporting ambitions that continue to shape his career.
No agreement has yet been announced with any Italian club, and negotiations remain at an early stage.
The financial aspects of a possible transfer are still being examined, while interested parties continue to evaluate whether a deal can be completed.
Nevertheless, indications suggest that Kessié’s future may lie away from Saudi Arabia.
As his contract nears expiry, the coming weeks are expected to provide greater clarity on where the Ivory Coast international will continue his career.
For now, the midfielder remains focused on his World Cup commitments, but the prospect of a return to Serie A is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Should the move materialise, it would mark a significant chapter in the career of one of Africa’s most prominent footballers and represent another high-profile return of an established African star to European football.
With time running down on his current contract, all eyes will be on Kessié as he prepares to make one of the most important decisions of his professional career.
