Juventus Prepares First Offer for Controversial US Striker and Former Milan Player

Juventus is reportedly maintaining its interest in US national team striker Folarin Balogun and is preparing an initial offer for free agent Franck Kessie, according to Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport. The US international forward was at the center of a significant controversy during the 2026 World Cup, where he was sent off in the Round of 16 against Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, following intervention from President Donald Trump and calls to FIFA, his suspension was overturned. Meanwhile, 29-year-old Kessie has refused to renew his contract with Al Ahli and is open to a return to Serie A. A potential hurdle, however, could be his agent's demand for a signing bonus exceeding 5 million euros.

Paris Saint-Germain striker Randal Kolo Muani remains a primary target for Juventus, but the 'Bianconeri' have been in negotiations with the French giants for several weeks and have threatened to withdraw if PSG does not lower their financial demands. Against this backdrop, Monaco's Balogun is emerging as a realistic option for the Turin club, especially after The Athletic reported in June that the American was planning a summer transfer.