According to a recent report by the Daily Star, Chelsea are ready to let Tiemoue Bakayoko join AC Milan permanently but only if Franck Kessie heads on the other direction to Stamford Bridge. The same source has revealed that the Pensioners are prepared to take the Ivorian midfielder in return if Milan wants to turn Bakayoko’s loan deal into a permanent one at the end of this campaign.
Kessie is currently enjoying a fruitful campaign with AC Milan having established himself in Gennaro Gattuso’s first-team. Since completing his two-year loan switch to the San Siro from Atalanta in the summer of 2017, the Ivorian talent has gone on to make 27 appearances for the Italian outfit this term, scoring three goals while creating two assists across all competitions.
Gattuso will now be obligated to sign him permanently in the summer when his loan spell comes to an end. However, the Milan boss would also need to weigh up who he values more between Bakayoko and Kessie before taking a decision on their futures with the club at the end of this season. With Chelsea reportedly willing to make a deal for Bakayoko in exchange for Kessie, it will be integral for both clubs that they make up their minds prior to agreeing on a potential swap deal next summer.
Kessie has proven his worth at the highest level after putting in a series of commanding displays at the heart of the Milan midfield. Maurizio Sarri could benefit from acquiring a player of the Ivorian’s talents as his defensive ability in midfield could be a useful asset for the Italian manager. Kessie could be a potential solution to Chelsea’s midfield struggles this season.
The trio of NGolo Kante, Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic has not been effective while working together under the stewardship of Sarri which has translated to some poor results on the pitch. Hence, the acquisition of Kessie will undoubtedly bolster Sarri’s midfield options at Stamford Bridge and add more competition for places within the Chelsea squad.
Bakayoko had found it tough making an impact in English football since his move from AS Monaco in the summer of 2017. However, to his credit, he has adapted to life in the Serie A reasonably well while playing on loan at AC Milan this season. Despite failing to score a goal this term, the French talent has been a solid presence in midfield alongside Kessie, so it is no surprise that Milan wants to recruit him permanently next summer. Hence, a potential swap deal could be a good move for all parties as both Chelsea and Milan would benefit from such a transfer.
