Chelsea and Arsenal are fighting over a deal to sign Juventus’ versatile striker Kenan Yildiz Caught offside.
After joining Turin on a free transfer from Bayern Munich in 2022, the versatile forward has continued to receive relatively modest wages compared to a host of squad members, despite emerging as one of Juventus’ most influential match-winners since last season.
His first appearance came as a second-half substitute on 20 August 2023 during the 3–0 away win against Udinese at the Stadio Friuli, before striking again in his first start on 23 December, breaking the deadlock in the Bianconeri’s 2–1 success over Frosinone.
From then on, Yildiz has not only carved out an important role within the squad, but has also developed into one of Europe’s most exciting young strikers, a status underlined by his selection on the shortlist for the 2025 Golden Boy Award.
That upward trajectory has continued this season, with the teenager notching six goals and six assists in 21 appearances in all competitions for the Bianconeri this term, inevitably attracting interest from Europe’s top clubs.
In the Eredivisie Caught offside reports that Chelsea and Arsenal are leading the race to sign Yildiz, whose contract talks with Juventus have stalled.
Conflict
For the Blues, the report adds that the Club World Cup champions remain interested in the 20-year-old after their £61million bid was rejected last summer.
Enzo Maresca’s side view the versatile forward as a viable option for their long-term youth-focused investment strategy and believe they are well positioned to complete his transfer given their close relationship with his agent, Jorge Mendes.
On the other hand, Arsenal remain ‘firmly in contention’ for the youngster and are ready to make a move, having been in direct contact with the player’s agent. According to the report, his technical qualities will suit Mikel Arteta’s side well.
While Yildiz’s reported salary demands of £5m per year fit within the Blues’ pay structure, Juventus are likely to demand a fee in excess of his £65m. Transfer market valuation, giving Arsenal the advantage as Chelsea appear to have moved away from overpaying for players, having previously walked away from deals to sign Xavi Simons and Victor Osimhen.
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