West Ham United are keen on signing Ivory Coast international Franck Kessie from AC Milan. The midfielder joined the club on a permanent deal earlier this year, and he could be on his way to the Premier League very soon.
According to journalist Carlo Pellegatti, the Hammers could sign Kessie for a fee of around €22 million. But, the Hammers face some competition from other clubs, including Wolves and AS Monaco.
The 22-year-old previously played for Atalanta, with loan deals to Cesena and AC Milan, before Milan signed him earlier this year.
His current deal with the Italian club expires in 2022. Kessie has made over 100 appearances for Milan since signing on loan with them in 2017, scoring 13 goals and managing 8 assists. He has also made 35 appearances for the Ivory Coast national team.
Is Frank Kessie the player West Ham are missing?
Kessie is an exciting and versatile player who can play as a defensive midfielder, central midfielder, or as an attacking midfielder. He has primarily been used in the centre of the park for Milan, where he has used his energy, strength, and stamina to go from one box to the other.
The Ivorian is a strong dribbler who can be used as a link player between midfield and attack. His ability to brush aside defenders when with the ball is his greatest strength.
Kessie averages 41.1 passes per game in the season, with a pass completion rate of 87%. He also contributes defensively, closing down opponents and making strong tackles. This season in Serie A, Kessie has averaged 1.6 tackles per game.
He is a useful player in counter-attacking situations while he also adds energy in the middle of the park. Kessie could be a good addition to the West Ham team, which has struggled lately, especially in midfield.
Hammers captain Mark Noble is in the twilight of his career, and Kessie could be an able replacement for him. While he may not be very good in creating chances for his teammates, he does bring urgency and drive to the midfield area, which has been lacking lately.
At 22, Kessie has the potential to be a good player, and West Ham could be a great place to prove what he’s truly worth.