Southampton are reportedly the latest club to show interest in the Atalanta midfielder Franck Kessié. According to Tutto Mercato Web, the club have “joined a queue” for the wonderkid who has been impressing in Serie A.
The information was published alongside an interview with George Atangana, Kessié’s agent, who talked about the race for the player.
“He’s got his season at Bergamo and these things should not disturb him. I must say that there weren’t concrete contacts with me, obviously certain approaches are pleasing, but for now I must say that they are just rumorus. At the moment he thinks of Atalanta and it will do him good.”
“As his agent, my priority is his growth and maturation, so I don’t think there is the possibility to leave Atalanta in January. Remember there’s a five-year contract with the club, it’s early to make assurances.”
It’s a funny thing that Tutto Mercato Web have published the Southampton information without having it in the agent’s quotes. Maybe it means it was him who told them it, even though it was off the record.
Although playing as a defensive midfielder, Kessié’s numbers of this season are impressive. He has five goals and two assists in ten games. Many attacking players don’t have these stats.
Talented youngsters don’t last long at clubs like Atalanta, as the Serie A giants are always there for them. So if the Saints are really keen, the competition shouldn’t be easy. Kessié’s contract at the club runs until 2021.
