Free Agent Frenzy: Franck Kessié on the Move as Al Ahli’s Renewal Talks Stall
23 March 2026
Free agent status fuels a crowded market
One of the Saudi Pro League’s midfield standouts is lining up for a summer departure as a free agent after his club failed to renew his contract.
Turkish outlet Fotospor reports that Al Ahli have not yet renewed Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessié’s deal, and that the player himself wants out of the league.
Al Ahli signed him from Barcelona in 2023 for 12.5 million euros, and this season he has appeared 21 times in the Saudi league (1834 minutes), scoring three goals and providing two assists.
Interest in the player is growing among Galatasaray and Besiktas, who are monitoring his situation, knowing that a move would require a sizeable signing bonus and a high annual salary even on a free transfer. Inter and Juventus had previously explored a move.
Kessié, who will represent the Ivory Coast at the World Cup this summer, could become a key midfield addition for Galatasaray alongside Wilfried Singo if the club wins the race.
Punchline: If he signs for free, the club’s budget committee will finally see a glow-up in the balance sheet. Punchline 2: The midfield just got lighter—Franck is the only player who can walk in the door without a knock-knock-knock on the wallet.
