Juventus, a transfer market setback: Luciano Spalletti’s big dream is in jeopardy

Luciano Spalletti has long been asking Giovanni Carnevali for a new addition to Juventus’ midfield. Among the Certaldo-born coach’s top targets is Franck Kessié, a free agent following his three-year stint with Al-Ahli.

The former Milan midfielder has long been on the Old Lady’s radar, but the deal could fall through because of Roma, eager for revenge following the Zeki Çelik situation. The experienced Turkish star was expected in the capital to renew his contract following the Giallorossi’s efforts to reach a financial agreement, but just before boarding his flight to Rome, he changed his mind and chose Juventus instead.

During the press conference, Gian Piero Gasperini had this to say about the Çelik situation: “It’s probably true—we’re slow to close deals. Sometimes you’re a gasoline engine, sometimes a diesel engine. That’s how it went with Çelik. We need to do better because we have to move faster in the transfer market. Ryan Friedkin’s presence here can help us. I thank Çelik for what he did last year, but from a soccer standpoint, I’m convinced we’ll strengthen that position as well.”

With the Çelik deal closed, Juventus will try to speed up the pursuit of Franck Kessié to beat Roma to the punch, and then the Bianconeri will focus on the attack. The top contenders are Alexander Sørloth, Mateo Pellegrino, Folarin Balogun, and Serhou Guirassy. The situation with Randal Kolo Muani is decidedly complicated, as Paris Saint-Germain is asking for at least 45 million euros for him.