The Serie A rumor mill is heating up, and Roma have emerged as a surprise contender in the race to sign former AC Milan star Frank Kessié. According to reports from FootAfrica (via Mediaset), the Giallorossi have joined Juventus and Inter in tracking the Ivorian midfielder, who appears destined for a return to Europe after a lucrative stint in the Saudi Pro League.

Kessié, who rose to prominence under Gian Piero Gasperini at Atalanta before starring for Milan, is reportedly eager to come back to Serie A. However, both Juventus and Inter—the fierce Derby d’Italia rivals—have yet to make a formal offer, leaving the door open for Roma to make a move.

The timing is interesting, as Roma are navigating a period of significant uncertainty. Sporting director Frederic Massara is reportedly on his way out, and the club's final league position will heavily shape their transfer strategy. Historically, the Giallorossi have shied away from signing veterans, but Kessié's potential availability as a free agent—his contract with Al Ahli is in question despite a recent extension offer—could tempt them to break that trend.

Financially, there are hurdles. Kessié, who has been "covered in gold" in Saudi Arabia, is demanding around €4.5 million per year. While that's not an astronomical figure, Roma are notoriously careful with their wage structure, often offering reduced rates to even their current veterans. Still, a quality Bosman signing in midfield could prove invaluable, especially with Manu Koné tipped as a candidate to depart for Financial Fair Play relief.

If Roma do make a real push for Kessié, it would signal that Gasperini's influence is stronger than ever—a significant departure from the club's usual modus operandi. The question remains whether his wage demands are truly manageable, but one thing is clear: Kessié would be far more valuable as an addition to the squad than as a direct replacement for Koné.