Franck Kessié leaves Al-Ahli: Eduard Spertsyan could take his place

Franck Kessié has officially left Saudi club Al-Ahli as a free agent. The departure of the Ivory Coast captain opens up a place in midfield for the AFC Champions League winners, with Armenia captain Eduard Spertsyan considered a leading candidate to fill the role.

Kessié joined Al-Ahli after leaving Barcelona and became one of the team’s key players. The Ivorian midfielder won the AFC Champions League with the Saudi club, but now intends to continue his career in European football.

Juventus is being mentioned as one of the possible options for Kessié’s next move. The player previously admitted that he had heard the rumors linking him with the Turin club and considers himself a strong option for European teams, especially as a free agent.

Following Kessié’s departure, Al-Ahli are preparing to refresh their midfield. The main candidate to replace the Ivorian is Eduard Spertsyan — the leader of Krasnodar and captain of the Armenia national team.

For Spertsyan, a move to Al-Ahli could become the biggest transfer of his career. The Saudi club is one of the strongest teams in Asia and continues to strengthen its squad after winning the continent’s top club competition.

Spertsyan has remained one of the best players in the Russian Premier League over the past few seasons. The Armenian midfielder is known for his powerful shot, quality final pass and ability to control the attacking phase of the game. At Al-Ahli, he could receive an important role in midfield after Kessié’s exit.