Roma Aims to Sign Franck Kessié as Response to Juventus’ Transfer Moves
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Roma are plotting a transfer revenge on Juventus and Frederic Massara, which would prompt the Giallorossi to open talks with free agent Franck Kessié.
Roma are reportedly infuriated with Juventus and Massara after the Bianconeri hijacked their offer to sign Zeki Celik.
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The Giallorossi expected the Turkish defender to land in the capital to sign a contract extension, but Celik took the flight for Turin instead.
His contract with Roma had expired on June 30, so Juventus were allowed to hold talks with the 29-year-old.
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – APRIL 29: Franck Kessié of Al-Ahli Saudi reacts during the AFC Champions League Elite Semi Final between Al Hilal and Al Ahli at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on April 29, 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
What deepened Roma’s frustration was that Massara served as their sporting director in 2025-26 and had negotiated Celik’s extension at the Stadio Olimpico before leaving the club due to disagreements with Gian Piero Gasperini.
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Gazzetta reports that Roma are preparing a potential transfer revenge by targeting ex-Atalanta and Milan star Kessié.
The Ivory Coast international is without a club after refusing to extend with Al-Ahli and is open to returning to Serie A.
Juventus have already opened talks with his agents, who have demanded a salary of at least €5m plus a signing bonus.
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)
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Kessié has already worked with Gasperini and is seen as a potential replacement for Manchester United and Liverpool target Manu Koné.
According to Gazzetta, Roma are also interested in Juventus’ Francisco Conceiçao, but it’s unlikely they’ll offer more than €40m.