Saudi Arabia’s unprecedented shopping spree has seen some of the biggest names in football swap European glory for the Gulf Kingdom’s riches. In the space of a few weeks, the likes of Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, Ruben Neves, and Kalidou Koulibaly have been lured to move to the Middle East. The Saudi Pro League have now set their sights on Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessié.
According to a report in Spanish outlet SPORT, Al-Ahli have contacted Kessie, offering him a huge offer and contract until 2026 to move to Jeddah.
The Ivorian remains keen on continuing at Camp Nou, although he’ll consider their proposal if Xavi fails to guarantee him an important role in the squad for the next season.
Kessie was only handed seven starts in La Liga last term. With Xavi keen on adding another midfielder this summer following İlkay Gündoğan‘s signing, the situation is only likely to get worse for the former AC Milan star.
Saudi Arabia interested in signing Barcelona midfielder
Further, the Blaugrana are looking to raise funds through sales to register their summer signings, and are expected to demand around €30m from Al-Ahli before sanctioning the midfielder’s exit. Any such move would represent great business for the club as Kessie joined them on a free transfer only 12 months ago.
The 26-year-old’s departure would also help Xavi in his pursuit of Inter Milan veteran Marcelo Brozović. The idea of a swap deal involving Kessie and Brozovic didn’t attract the former as he was not keen on returning to Italian football.
Following Kessie’s sale, Barcelona may find themselves in a favorable position to table a straight transfer offer for Brozovic. However, it’s not going to be easy to secure the signature of the Croatia as Al-Nassr are trying to tempt him to move to the SPL this summer.