Kenan Yildiz celebrates after scoring for Juventus, amid transfer interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Real Madrid.
Kenan Yildiz could be on his way out of Turin. The young Turkish forward’s contract talks with Juventus have hit a dead end, leaving top European clubs — including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Real Madrid — ready to pounce.
The 20-year-old, who joined Juventus from Bayern Munich in 2022, has quickly become one of the club’s brightest stars. But despite his impressive performances, the club has failed to meet his wage demands, sparking speculation that his time with the Old Lady may be coming to an end.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Yildiz’s representatives and newly appointed Juventus CEO Damien Comolli have been unable to find common ground on a contract extension.
The player’s camp is pushing for a salary increase that reflects his growing importance — reportedly seeking around €6 million per year — but Juventus remain hesitant. Currently earning just €1.7 million annually, Yildiz’s pay is far below that of his senior teammates, despite being a standout performer this season.
Negotiations have now completely stalled, and both parties appear unwilling to budge, raising serious questions about the young star’s future.
Chelsea, long-time admirers of Yildiz, are reportedly ready to reignite their interest after their initial €67 million bid was rejected last summer. Arsenal have also entered the race, while Real Madrid are keeping a close watch — with reports suggesting that the player’s value could soar past €100 million if a bidding war breaks out next summer.
With his contract running until 2029, Juventus still hold some leverage. However, the breakdown in talks could force them to consider offers before things get messy.
Even Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso is said to be a big admirer of the Turkish wonderkid. Ahead of their Champions League clash with Juventus, Alonso praised Yildiz’s rapid development, saying, “He’s had a fantastic development. I know him. He was at Bayern Munich when I was there. Seeing his progress makes me very happy.”
According to agent Giovanni Branchini, Alonso reportedly told Madrid’s board he would sell “anyone except Kylian Mbappe” if it meant bringing Yildiz to the Bernabéu.
Adding to the transfer buzz, Yildiz’s former Juventus teammate Nicolo Savona — now at Nottingham Forest — has openly encouraged him to join the Premier League.
“I would recommend the Premier League to all the kids who love football,” Savona told Gazzetta. “It would be difficult to say otherwise. So also to Kenan and any of his teammates.”
With three of Europe’s biggest clubs circling and Juventus struggling to meet his demands, Kenan Yildiz could become one of the hottest transfer stories of 2026.
If a deal happens, it wouldn’t just be a move — it would be a statement.
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