Juventus and Barcelona will meet in a glamorous pre-season friendly on Sunday night in Santa Clara, California – but the game will serve as a chance for the clubs to conduct some high-profile business as well. The subject of negotiations will be Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessie.##NAJAVA_MECA_7377918##Juventus’ newly-appointed transfer supremo Cristiano Giuntoli has the task of forming a midfield which could compete for the title in Serie A – or qualify for the UEFA Champions League at the very least. Former Milan and Atalanta star Kessie would offer some much-needed class, muscle and experience to the Bianconeri. Giuntoli even tried to sign the 26-year-old player nicknamed ‘President’ while he was still employed by Napoli. This time around, he hopes to finally recruit the African.Barcelona have no choice but to sell players, get some much-needed cash into the club’s accounts and reduce the wage bill. Besides, the Catalans have Ilkay Gundogan to join Frenkie De Jong in the middle of the park, so Kessie isn’t considered essential to coach Xavi’s plans next season.Barça are asking for at least €25m for Kessie. Juventus like the player and have asked for him, but they must sell players before they can go for him. As of today, Kessie would not like to return to Italy.— @MatteMoretto pic.twitter.com/KkKAI87Pk1— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) July 14, 2023 However, one big factor in the story is the Ivorian’s reluctance to change clubs. He only joined Barca a year ago when his Milan contract expired and has been playing rather regularly for the Camp Nou club. He would have to get a remarkable offer to tempt him to return to Serie A. If he is to be forced out by Barcelona’s leaders, a transfer to a Premier League club would be preferable.There is a lot to talk about between Juve and Barca. So what would be nicer than a long, hard conversation on by the Pacific Ocean?
