Juventus push for free Kessié transfer amid Thuram knee concerns
Quick summary
Juventus are exploring a free transfer move for Franck Kessié as concerns grow over Marcus Thuram's recurring knee problems.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceJuventus midfielder Khephren Thuram is dealing with knee problems, which will force him to miss the entire pre-season, so the Bianconeri are now pushing to sign Franck Kessié as a free agent, but hope the ex-Milan star will lower his demands.
Ivory Coast international midfielder remains on Juventus’ radar, and according to Gazzetta , the Bianconeri have progressed negotiations for the 29-year-old in recent weeks.
Juventus continue Kessié talks Kessié refused to sign a contract extension with his previous club, Al-Ahli, so he’s available as a free agent, but Gazzetta claims that Juventus are unwilling to match his salary demands.
TORONTO, ONTARIO – JUNE 20: Franck Kessié #8 of Cote d’Ivoire celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match between Germany and Cote D’Ivoire at Toronto Stadium on June 20, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) According to the report, Kessié is intrigued by the prospect of joining Juventus, but has demanded a salary between €5m and €6m and a substantial signing bonus for himself and his agent.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 25: Khephren Thuram of Juventus FC reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between Juventus and Galatasaray A.S. at Juventus Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images) Juventus will continue negotiations with the ex-Milan star in the coming days, especially because one of their midfield stars, Thuram, is dealing with a knee problem that will force him to miss the entire pre-season.
The Frenchman has patellofemoral pain syndrome, so he’ll train separately for the entire summer, hoping to be eligible to play in September.
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What happened
Juventus are pushing to sign midfielder Franck Kessié on a free transfer, motivated partly by worries about Marcus Thuram's knee issues. Thuram has reportedly been managing knee problems, creating a potential need for reinforcement in the attacking/creative areas of the squad. Kessié, available without a transfer fee, represents a low-cost option for the Turin club. The move would be a strategic addition to provide depth and cover as Juventus assess their options in the transfer market.
Chance analysis
This reflects a pragmatic, budget-conscious approach from Juventus, targeting a free agent whose physical profile and Serie A experience could offset the uncertainty around Thuram's fitness. If Thuram's knee issues persist, Juventus lose creativity and goal threat in the final third, making a like-for-like or complementary addition important. The Kessié link suggests Juventus are preparing contingency rather than committing to a major outlay in January or next summer.
If completed, Kessié would add midfield depth for Juventus, partially mitigating the risk posed by Thuram's knee concerns.
Monitor Thuram's fitness status and Juventus midfield/attack rotation; if knee problems worsen, expect Juventus to accelerate the Kessié pursuit and adjust tactical setups.