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Kenan Yildiz: Juventus’ Turkish star becomes Manchester United’s top target

Kenan Yildiz Juventus' midfielder Kenan Yildiz (10) celebrates scoring his team's fourth goal during match between Inter Milan at San Siro Stadium in Milan, Italy on October 27, 2024. (AA Photo)
By Selin Hacialioglu
Dec 4, 2024 2:20 PM

Kenan Yildiz, the rising 19-year-old Turkish football talent, is the focus of significant attention from Manchester United.

  • The Premier League club, led by new manager Ruben Amorim, is reportedly planning to make an offer during the January transfer window
  • Known for his strong performances at Juventus, Yildiz has also drawn the interest of other major European clubs, making him one of the most sought-after young players
Kenan Yildiz (19) celebrates after scoring a goal
Kenan Yildiz (19) celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Nations League B, Group 4 match between Montenegro and Türkiye, Montenegro on Nov. 19, 2024. (AA Photo)

Turkish football star Kenan Yildiz’s Juventus career, rising influence

Yildiz has established himself as a key player for Juventus this season. Wearing the iconic number 10 jersey, he has participated in 19 matches across all competitions, scoring four goals and providing two assists.

His impact extends to the Turkish national team, where he contributed one goal and one assist during UEFA Nations League matches. Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero has praised Yildiz for his development and growing role in the team.

In only his second season with Juventus’ senior squad, Yildiz has proven indispensable. Earlier this year, he extended his contract with the Italian club until 2029, a clear indication of Juventus’ commitment to keeping him.

However, Yildiz’s $42 million market valuation and exceptional talent have attracted attention from Premier League giants like Manchester United.

Kenan Yildiz: Juventus' Turkish star becomes Manchester United's top target
Juventus’ midfielder Kenan Yildiz (10) celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during a match between Inter Milan at San Siro Stadium in Milan, Italy on Oct. 27, 2024. (AA Photo)

Manchester United’s Ruben Amorim includes Kenan Yildiz in his plans for January

Manchester United’s manager, Ruben Amorim, is focusing on strengthening the squad to improve the team’s competitiveness.

Reports indicate that Amorim sees Yildiz as a critical part of his offensive strategy. According to Sky Germany, Amorim has added Yildiz to his list of key transfer targets for January.

Amorim’s efforts to rebuild Manchester United also involve potential defensive signings, such as Alphonso Davies from Bayern Munich and Theo Hernandez from AC Milan.

Since Amorim’s appointment, Manchester United has performed better, recording two wins and one draw in his first three matches. Insiders at the club believe that Yildiz’s creativity and versatility would make him a valuable addition to the team.

Kenan Yildiz: Juventus' Turkish star becomes Manchester United's top target
Juventus’ midfielder Kenan Yildiz (10) celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal with Andrea Cambiaso (27) and Pierre Kalulu (15) during match against Inter Milan in Milan, on Oct. 27, 2024. (AFP Photo)

Liverpool, Arsenal, PSG also eye Kenan Yildiz

Although Manchester United is reportedly leading the race for Yildiz, other European powerhouses are closely monitoring the young player. Liverpool, Arsenal, and Paris Saint-Germain are all expected to enter negotiations during the January transfer window.

Juventus remains determined to keep Yildiz.

  • Since joining the club in 2022, he has progressed steadily and increased his playing time this season
  • Yildiz has repeatedly expressed satisfaction with his role at Juventus and is included in the club’s long-term plans

Kenan Yildiz’s future is a central topic in European football as the January transfer window approaches. Whether he stays at Juventus or moves to one of Europe’s top clubs, he will likely remain a key figure in the upcoming transfer discussions.

Last Updated:  Dec 4, 2024 2:20 PM