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Franck Kessié & The Continuing Loan Opportunities 

 

With Ryan Gravenberch & Mattéo Guendouzi already looked upon as potential loan options, there’s another name which has been mentioned for the reds to monitor. As funds seem limited until the summer transfer window, it would appear a last minute deal could be struck within this January window.

 

Last summer saw Barcelona continue to defy their own monetary issues, when recruiting Franck Kessié at the end of his AC Milan contract. Despite having a plethora of players within the midfield area, the Catalan giants seemed intent on signing players with the view of moving others on. As Frenkie de Jong refused to leave his Spanish post, it seems that the overinflated wage bill may have to be trimmed somehow, with the Ivorian international seemingly sat on the fringes of Xavi’s impressive squad.

 

Here are some details on the former Atalanta man.

 

Franck Kessié 

Age – 26-years old (DOB 19/12/1996)

Current club – Barcelona 

Height – 6ft 0inches

Weight – 88kg

Senior club appearances – 318 games

Senior club goals & assists – 50 / 24

Total minutes played – 24,862

International caps & goals – 60 games / 7 goals

 

This is a talented player that was a pivotal figure in AC Milan finally recapturing the Scudetto, in the 2021/22 season. His integral part in their success saw him named in the Serie A team of the year, making a player that was coveted by many of Europe’s major clubs. Liverpool was in fact linked to him (prior to his move to the Nou Camp), given his impressive performances against the reds in last year’s Champions League. That very campaign saw the central midfielder make 39 appearances across all competitions, whilst registering seven goals and one assist. Though he has managed twenty appearances, two goals and two assists for his new club, it does feel like he is their rotation piece, despite being the guaranteed starter when at the San Siro.

 

With his ability to occupy either the holding or central midfield roles, he would be that ideal option for Jürgen Klopp right now. His power and overall ability to control central areas are key facets to his game. With a summer of change destined at Anfield, his winter recruitment would be as logical right now, as it would have been last summer. His continuing use from the bench has seen him as a pure back up for the La Liga table toppers. With the legendary Sergio Busquets, the determined Frenkie de Jong, and the gifted youngsters, Pedri and Gavi all ahead of the African player, now may the moment for him to make a move. 

 

This past weekend has once again seen how much Jordan Henderson, James Milner, and even Fabinho required replacing, with an inability to control that middle ground. Though this transitional period is hampered by the stagnating sale process, if there is a deal to be struck, then Kessié could represent a very smart piece of business.

 

Steven Smith

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