Report: Newcastle have loan-to-buy bid rejected for AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie

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Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb have claimed that Newcastle United have seen a loan-to-buy offer for AC Milan star Franck Kessie rejected, as the club’s soon-to-be new owners are reportedly set to make an announcement this week.

Kessie, 23, has been in excellent form for Milan once again this season – making 25 appearances in all competitions for the San Siro side. However, he is being strongly linked with a move to the Premier League once again.

Plenty of Premier League sides have been linked with the Ivorian in recent windows – and Newcastle have been added to that list. Milan Live claimed this month that Newcastle were one of five Premier League sides keen on Kessie.

Arsenal, Tottenham, Wolves and West Ham are also said to be keen on Kessie but Newcastle have taken the first step to sign the ex-Atalanta star. They tabled a £4.5m loan fee, and between £22.4m and £26.8m to sign him permanently. It has been rejected.

TBR’s view – Kessie would be a top signing for most PL sides

Somewhat underrated for his performances in a stuttering Milan side, Kessie already has enormous experience for a player that is still only 23. More than 150 outings at top-tier level for Milan and Atalanta and 39 Ivory Coast caps, Kessie is a proper player.

Boasting pace and brute strength in midfield, Kessie can drive his team forward and has an eye for goal. He has had a hand in 22 goals during his 121 Milan appearances, scoring 13 times and creating nine more.