Roma ahead of Premier League clubs in pursuit of Atalanta star

The agent of sought after midfielder Franck Kessie has revealed Roma are leading the chase for the Atalanta starlet but there are also Premier League sides interested in his signature.

Kessie has enjoyed a sublime season for overachievers Atalanta this season and is widely expected to be subject to a big money offer at the end of the season with a number of clubs across Europe circling.

The 20-year-old is regularly linked with a move to Chelsea and Manchester United but his agent, George Atangana, has revealed Atalanta’s Serie A rivals Roma are in pole position for his services, although no deal is close to being completed.

“Franck is close to many clubs and close to none,” he told Rai Sports, via The Sun. “I must admit that Roma have the advantage for Kessie, but we haven’t closed a deal yet because there are other top clubs interested who continue to call me.

“There are very few clubs who can afford him though. I can confirm he’s a good lad, honest and humble. He was brought up well.

“I can’t say how much he is worth, because that is down to Atalanta. I can only say he is a complete player and everywhere you put him, he can do that role.

“There are many overseas clubs interested in him. Manchester City, where his friend yay Toure plays in the same role. Liverpool, where their manager Jurgen Klopp knows how to help young players develop.

“Then there’s Arsenal, whose manager is very close to French-speaking players. I have to say they are not the only Premier League clubs who are after him, as there are many more too.”

The all-action Ivory Coast international has scored six goals and registered three assists in his breakthrough campaign for Atalanta this season, although he was sent off in a shock 2-0 win away to Napoli back in February, which was his second sending off of the league campaign.

For more stats on Franck Kessie, click here to visit his WhoScored player page