When Liverpool move in the transfer market, they rarely do it quietly — and this time, they’ve set their sights on one of Europe’s brightest young stars. Reports from Italy and England have ignited fresh excitement around Kenan Yildiz, Juventus’ Turkish wonderkid, with Liverpool preparing what sources call a “substantial offer” to bring him to Anfield.
The 20-year-old forward has become one of Serie A’s most electric attacking talents, blending skill, creativity, and confidence well beyond his years. But Liverpool aren’t the only ones circling — Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United are all watching closely. Among them, Chelsea are said to be the early “favourites” to land him, but if history tells us anything, it’s that Liverpool never back down from a transfer battle.
The New Transfer War Begins
For months, whispers have circulated about Liverpool’s long-term plan to replace Mohamed Salah, whose future remains uncertain amid ongoing interest from the Saudi Pro League. While Salah is still under contract until 2027, his form this season has been inconsistent, and speculation continues to mount that a move could happen sooner than expected.
Enter Kenan Yildiz — the next big thing out of Turin. The Turkish international’s flair, energy, and versatility have turned heads across Europe. Known for his silky dribbling and fearless approach, Yildiz can play on either flank or as an attacking midfielder — a tactical gift that fits perfectly into Arne Slot’s system of fluid, interchangeable attackers.
Reports suggest Liverpool are ready to test Juventus’ resolve with a blockbuster bid worth around £79 million, a figure that would make Yildiz one of the most expensive Turkish players in football history.
The Tug-Of-War: Chelsea In Front, But Liverpool Watching Closely
While Liverpool are quietly preparing their move, Chelsea currently lead the race. Sources claim the London club have already held informal talks with Yildiz’s representatives, hoping to convince him of their long-term project built around youth and development.
However, Liverpool have something Chelsea can’t easily offer — a proven record of turning raw talent into world-class greatness. From Salah and Mané to Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez, Liverpool’s track record speaks for itself.
For a player like Yildiz, who thrives in high-pressure, high-energy environments, Anfield could be the perfect stage. The roar of the Kop, the passion of Merseyside, and the vision of a coach like Slot could be exactly what he needs to take the next leap.
As one insider put it, “If Chelsea have the money, Liverpool have the identity.”
Contract Tensions in Turin
Juventus, of course, want to keep their rising star. Negotiations for a new contract have been ongoing, but progress has been slow. Yildiz’s current deal runs until 2027, yet Juve have been pushing for an extension to secure his long-term future.
The Italian giants reportedly offered a £90,000-per-week salary, but Yildiz’s entourage has so far declined to accept, citing both playing time and future ambitions as key sticking points. Juventus’ inability to meet those expectations has fueled speculation that the player could leave — possibly as early as this summer.
With Premier League clubs on alert, Juve now face the same problem many top European sides have encountered — how to keep a young superstar who’s ready for the next stage of his career.
Why Liverpool See Him as the Ideal Successor to Salah
Yildiz’s playing style makes him an intriguing prospect for Liverpool. While he primarily operates on the left wing, his ambidexterity and tactical intelligence allow him to drift across the front line with ease.
Salah’s brilliance has always been defined by explosiveness and precision, and while Yildiz doesn’t yet have the same level of finishing, his combination of creativity, unpredictability, and youth make him the kind of player who could evolve under Slot’s system.
Liverpool have always preferred to identify their next superstar before the world fully catches on — and Yildiz fits that mold perfectly. His flair, energy, and attacking instinct mirror the traits of Liverpool’s most iconic forwards.
Moreover, his character — described by Juventus staff as “fearless, humble, and hungry” — is exactly what defines a true Liverpool player.
The Competition: Arsenal and Manchester United Also Lurking
Liverpool aren’t alone in the chase. Both Arsenal and Manchester United have shown serious interest in the Turkish forward.
For Arsenal, Yildiz represents a potential long-term partner or even successor to Gabriel Martinelli, offering depth and competition across the wings. Mikel Arteta reportedly admires his creativity and movement — traits that align with Arsenal’s high-possession, positional play.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are still searching for attacking inspiration, and Yildiz’s flair and versatility have caught their eye. Erik ten Hag’s side desperately need a spark in the final third — and Yildiz could offer exactly that.
Still, neither club has yet shown the same level of financial readiness as Liverpool or Chelsea. If the Reds truly push forward with a “substantial” offer, they could leapfrog both London and Manchester rivals in one move.
Juventus’ Dilemma: Cash In or Hold Firm?
Juventus are facing a familiar modern-day problem. Their financial situation isn’t as strong as it once was, and a bid approaching £79 million could be too tempting to resist.
For a club that has been rebuilding under Massimiliano Allegri, losing Yildiz would be a major blow — but it might also provide the funds needed to reinforce several areas of the squad.
The Italian press suggests that if no new contract is agreed by early 2025, Juventus will reluctantly listen to offers, knowing that Yildiz’s value might peak this summer.
That’s where Liverpool could pounce — decisively and dramatically.
Liverpool’s Transfer Vision Under Arne Slot
Since Arne Slot’s arrival, Liverpool have been clear about their priorities: youth, hunger, and versatility. The Dutch manager’s football philosophy thrives on players who press, move intelligently, and possess technical quality in transition.
Yildiz embodies all those attributes. He’s already proven his maturity in Italy’s toughest matches, scoring crucial goals and showing the composure of a player well beyond his 20 years.
If Liverpool secure him, he could easily form part of a new attacking trio alongside Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz — a fast, fluid, and dangerous frontline capable of terrorizing defenses across Europe.
Salah’s Future: The Deciding Factor
Ultimately, Liverpool’s pursuit of Yildiz may depend on what happens with Mohamed Salah.
If the Egyptian King stays beyond 2025, Liverpool could opt to wait, allowing Yildiz to spend another year developing at Juventus. But if Salah departs for Saudi Arabia — a possibility that grows stronger each transfer window — Liverpool will move swiftly for his replacement.
And Yildiz, with his potential and star power, looks tailor-made for the succession plan.
The Verdict: A New Era Taking Shape
For Liverpool fans, this potential signing feels symbolic — a sign that the club is planning for the next generation of legends. Salah’s shoes are enormous to fill, but the club’s interest in Kenan Yildiz signals intent, ambition, and vision.
Chelsea might be favourites now, but Liverpool have made a career out of turning “almost deals” into era-defining transfers. The Reds’ ability to spot and nurture elite-level talent remains unmatched — and Yildiz might just be their next masterstroke.
As negotiations unfold, one thing is certain: the transfer battle for Kenan Yildiz could define Liverpool’s summer. Whether it’s a tug-of-war with Chelsea or a late twist from Juventus, Liverpool’s move for the £79 million Turkish sensation could mark the dawn of a bold new era at Anfield.
