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Roma have launched a move for midfielder Franck Kessie, with Gian Piero Gasperini targeting a player he previously coached at Atalanta.

Tuesday evening produced a surprise development, as Gasperini's Roma made a serious approach for Franck Kessie, a player Juventus have been chasing for a long time, including over the past few hours. According to Sky, Roma have moved strongly for the former AC Milan midfielder, who worked under Gasperini at Atalanta and is now a free agent after his stint in Saudi Arabia. Kessie's possible arrival at Roma could in turn open the door for the exit of either Manu Kone or Neil El Aynaoui.

Juventus's position

According to Fabrizio Romano on his official X account, Juventus accelerated talks today as they try to sign Franck Kessie.

The Old Lady are keen to complete the transfer as quickly as possible, and this could prove to be the key week in their efforts to get the deal over the line. Juventus are in discussions over contract terms with the Ivorian midfielder's representatives. They are now attempting to formalise those conditions with all parties managing Franck Kessie's interests after Arthur's departure was cleared.

What still needs to happen? Juventus first want to complete Miretti's sale to Turkey, to Besiktas, the club of Dusan Vlahovic and manager Vincenzo Italiano. Once the Italian midfielder becomes a new Besiktas player, the room created in the wage bill will be used to reduce the gap and sort out the final details with Kessie.

Juventus must also remain alert to interest from the Saudi Pro League. The Ivorian has two offers on the table, and Al Ittihad in particular are pressing the former AC Milan player's camp for an answer as soon as possible. There is another twist too: Roma entered the race in the evening, attempting to move ahead of Juventus.