Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are preparing to join the race for AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie should their pursuits of Paul Pogba prove unfruitful, according to a report.
Pogba is yet to agree to an extension on his existing Manchester United contract - which expires in 2022 - but there is thought to be increasing optimism that he will pen fresh terms.
However, the World Cup winner can negotiate a move elsewhere from January, and agent Mino Raiola recently claimed that a return to Juventus has not been ruled out.
As a result, Mundo Deportivo claims that Barcelona and PSG may consider moving for Kessie as a potential alternative, with the Ivorian also due to become a free agent next summer.
Rossoneri sporting director Paolo Maldini remains hopeful that the club can tie Kessie down to a new contract, but the 24-year-old is looking increasingly likely to depart San Siro in 2022.
However, Barca and PSG will likely face competition for Kessie's signature from Chelsea, who have supposedly identified the midfielder as an ideal long-term successor for N'Golo Kante.
Kessie enjoyed a prolific 2020-21 season under Stefano Pioli - registering 13 goals and six assists from 37 Serie A matches.
Ben Knapton
