Real Madrid are vying for Kenan Yildiz, while Arsenal and Chelsea are under pressure.
Italian media reports indicate that Real Madrid are stepping up their pursuit of Kenan Yildiz, with Xabi Alonso directly involved. Arsenal and Chelsea have been working with the player's representatives and are awaiting a new round of negotiations with Juventus.
Real Madrid have entered the race to sign Kenan Yildiz and immediately changed the dynamics: according to Gazzetta dello Sport (via FussballTransfers), coach Xabi Alonso is personally leading the negotiations, even sending direct messages to the 20-year-old. This move puts significant pressure on Arsenal and Chelsea – teams that have contacted Yildiz's representatives in recent weeks – regarding the timing and strategy of their approach.
The core issue lies in Yildiz's future at Juventus. Although his contract runs until 2029, Italian media reports speculate about a possible departure in 2026 amid disagreements over compensation. The relationship is believed to have fractured as Juventus has refused to meet salary demands from Yildiz or Jorge Mendes – a figure who supports the player's family in career matters, although not his official agent.
Turning point: Alonso enters the fray.
Sources indicate that Xabi Alonso proactively contacted Yildiz to express his desire to bring him to Bernabeu. This move aligns with reports from October, when the 44-year-old manager was reportedly ready to make major personnel changes to make way for the Juventus talent. Alonso's proactive action has made a positive impression on Yildiz's family, thereby enhancing Real Madrid's standing in the race.
Meanwhile, Alonso enjoys the backing of the Real Madrid leadership, despite some influential figures in the dressing room reportedly being unhappy with his strict coaching methods. This support allows Real to act decisively if the opportunity arises.
Arsenal and Chelsea: the pressure of timing
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, a new round of negotiations between Yildiz and Juventus will soon take place – a crucial moment for all parties involved. If the relationship between the two sides truly breaks down, Arsenal and Chelsea are considered to be at the forefront of the deal. However, Real Madrid's accelerated pace, with Alonso's personal involvement, has forced the two Premier League representatives to react quickly, rather than waiting for the outcome of the negotiations.
For Yildiz, the current developments give him and his team more leverage in negotiations regarding salary and career development. For Juventus, the arrival of Real Madrid complicates negotiations – from contract value to commitment to the role – even though the player is still under contract until 2029.
Real Madrid are ready, Juventus maintain the initiative.
Sources indicate that Real Madrid are preparing to enter the fray as soon as Yildiz becomes available on the market. However, Juventus currently hold control with a long-term contract, and the rest depends on whether both sides can resolve their salary issues.
Real Madrid background
Real Madrid ended a run of three draws with a 3-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao. After the match, Xabi Alonso emphasized that it was a performance showcasing the team's character and focus. In this context, the pursuit of Yildiz shows Real Madrid's continued efforts to strengthen their squad depth and renew their competitive edge, consistent with the coaching staff's message.
Key milestones shaping the deal
- Kenan Yildiz's current contract with Juventus runs until 2029.
- Speculation about a possible split in 2026 arose due to disagreements over compensation.
- Arsenal and Chelsea have been in contact with Yildiz's representatives over the past few weeks.
- According to Gazzetta dello Sport (via FussballTransfers), Real Madrid have intensified their pursuit, with Xabi Alonso directly in contact.
- Fabrizio Romano predicts that a new round of negotiations between Yildiz and Juventus will take place soon.
At this point, Kenan Yildiz's future remains open. However, with Real Madrid entering the fray and Alonso taking the lead, the race for the 20-year-old's signature has become more intense for Arsenal and Chelsea. The balance will shift rapidly once the next round of talks between Yildiz and Juventus provides a final answer regarding his future.